Raymond "Ray" John Manzi

Raymond “Ray” John Manzi, age 79, was born on April 18, 1946, in West Virginia, and gained his wings peacefully in his sleep on December 2, 2025, in Kingsville, leaving behind a legacy of joy, kindness, and love that will be remembered by all who knew him.

Raymond lived a life filled with laughter. His infectious belly laugh could light up any room and lift the spirits of everyone around him. His smile was truly unforgettable, and he always saw the good in people, approaching life with a heart full of love, generosity, forgiveness, and courage.

Raymond spent his entire life surrounded by the unwavering love of his family, whether it was relatives or friends that had grown into family. He was raised by his mother, Elva (Shifflett) Shine, and his sister, Leona “Toots” (Shifflett) Rossi, and wherever life took them, he was along for the ride. After leaving West Virginia, Raymond and his family resided in Pennsylvania for a short time and eventually settled in Ohio, residing for many years in Chardon. In 2002, following the passing of his mother Elva, Raymond then started a new chapter in his life living with his sister Leona and her husband Earl Rossi, in Pierpont-Kellogsville, Ohio. He also enjoyed going on family vacations to Florida throughout the years. No matter where he was, he continuously lived a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished connections of those around him. Ray enjoyed the simpler things in life and had nothing but gratitude for all things, big or small.

After the passing of his sister Leona in 2013, Raymond moved into assisted living facilities around Ashtabula County, finally settling at the Ashtabula County Nursing Home in North Kingsville, where he spent his final earth side years surrounded by compassionate care and support from their staff as well as his Hospice care team.

Elva nurtured Raymond with patience, guidance, and unconditional love, and after her passing, Leona continued that devotion, helping him navigate life with independence, kindness, and joy. Together, they gave Ray a foundation of love, support, and confidence that carried him throughout his life. Their lifelong dedication deserves special recognition for the profound impact they had on his life. He wouldn’t have been the kind hearted gentleman he was without them.

Ray shared a deeply meaningful bond with his beloved companion, MaryAnn. Though not legally married, they celebrated their love with a heartfelt ceremony, promising to stand by each other’s side forever with an exchanging of rings to symbolize their love and commitment to one another. Their devotion was a source of comfort, love, strength, happiness, and true companionship. She was the light of his daily life and his best friend.

He also shared a special relationship with his great-niece Michelle “Misha” Collier of Geneva On The Lake, and her husband, Kyle, who played an essential role in Ray’s life. Raymond treasured the love, dependability, and stability her family provided, especially the joy of spending time with Michelle and Kyle’s children; Jayce, Kylie, and Caden who are his great-great nephews and great-great niece. Many beautiful memories were made, quite a few “firsts”, and some accomplishments of Ray’s bucket lists were completed, thanks to his great niece.

Raymond found joy in life’s simplest pleasures. Whether savoring popcorn during a favorite movie, taking a refreshing swim, lending a helping hand around the house, sipping root beer, or enjoying a bowl of black olives, he embraced each moment with genuine appreciation. He was a proud and dedicated employee of AshCraft for many years and an enthusiastic member of the special needs bowling league at Jefferson Lanes.

Ray cherished time with his family, always looking forward to sitting together at every meal. Holidays were especially meaningful to him. He had a special love for Christmas and proudly showcased his treasured Santa collection each season, delighting in the warmth, laughter, and togetherness the holidays brought.

Ray was open-minded and always up for anything. He loved to have fun, make memories, and share a good laugh with the people around him. His easygoing spirit and joyful sense of adventure made every moment spent with him feel special.

Movies, especially action films featuring Steven Seagal, and the timeless music of Elvis Presley were constant sources of happiness for him. A loyal supporter of the Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Cavaliers, he cheered for his teams with heartfelt devotion.

Among his greatest joys were his beloved lovebirds and cats, whom he cared for deeply. Ray truly loved being around people; he had an extraordinary gift for conversation and an effortless ability to connect. Within minutes of meeting him, you felt as though you had known him for a lifetime. Even in brief encounters, he took pride in turning new acquaintances into lasting friendships.

He is survived by nieces and nephews (in order by age): Judy A. Harte (married) of Ocean Isle Beach, N.C., Eric D. Rossi of Pierpont, and Karen D. (John Walker) Culp of Austinburg, as well as several great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elva (Shine) Manzi, and his siblings, George Shine, Richard Shine, and sister Leona “Toots” Rossi, niece Linda Patrizi, and nephew Michael Patrizi.

The immediate family (The Collier’s) deeply appreciated the compassionate caregivers who supported him in his final years. The staff at the Ashtabula County Nursing Home and the dedicated Hospice of Western Reserve team brought him comfort, companionship, and gentle care that meant so much to him and his family. All of these individuals played a vital role in every aspect of his life.

There will be no service open to the public. Anyone who would like to inquire further can reach out to his great niece, Michelle Collier, as mentioned above. A private viewing for immediate family was held in his honor and from there he will remain with his great niece to stay with family, as his sister Leona and mother Elva intended.

Raymond “Ray” John Manzi will be forever remembered for the love he gave, the joy he shared, and the light he brought into every life he touched. His laughter, warmth, and unwavering kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit continues to inspire and uplift, leaving behind a legacy of love, joy, and the simple pleasures that make life truly meaningful. Ray was a one-of-a-kind soul. Uniquely special in ways words can only begin to capture, whose life, marked by genuine compassion and unforgettable moments, was like no other. His presence was a gift, and the memory of his extraordinary heart will remain with us always.