Oberlin-Rayford Allen Manuel, 76, died at home with his family by his side after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 56 years, Patsy Manuel; his daughters, Donna (David) Dunnehoo and Paula (Kenneth) Chaumont, all of Oberlin, and Tina (Justin) LeJeune of Sulphur; seven grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.
Rayford was a millwright by trade. He was a simple man who worked hard and loved to hunt, fish, and garden. He provided the best tomatoes in the world to his community and will always be known as the "tomato man".
Rayford is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Mable Manuel and his dog, Bear.
Funeral service will be held Thursday, July 23, 2015 at 10 a.m. in the chapel of Allen Parish Funeral Home. Rev. Vernon Powell will officiate. Burial will follow in Bond Cemetery under the direction of Allen Parish Funeral Home-Oberlin Chapel.
The family will receive visitors at Allen Parish Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 22, 2015 from 4-9 p.m. with a rosary being prayed at 7 p.m. Visitation will resume on Thursday morning from 8 a.m. until time of service.
The family would like to extend sincere thanks to Dr. Rainey and the Cancer Center of Mamou and Brighton Bridge Hospice for the care given to their loved one.