Manuel pased away May 2, 2008 suddenly in Santa Ynez, CA.  He was born September 25, 1941 in Mmemphis, Texas, moving to Santa Maria, CA in 1945. He attended local schools, graduating from Santa Maria High School in 1959 and received his AA Degree from Allan Hhancock College.  Hhe will be remembered for his athletic prowess in high school and college, excelling especially in football.  He was employed with Republic Supply and Jordano's before beginning a 36 year career in farming, initially with his father-in-law, George M. Silva.  After Mr. Silva's death in 1971, he continued farming until his retirement in 2000.  He was then employed as a security guard with Chumash Casino and Resort.  Manuel loved spending time camping and boating at Lake Nacimiento, as well as motorhome trips with his family.  He also enjoyed traveling, especially his cruises to Mexico and Alaska, and trips to Canada, Washington DC, especially enjoying cross-country skiing.  He loved sports, whether it was playing the game, attending the game, or watching the game on TV.  One of his favorite things to do was barbeque for family and friends as well as spending time with his grandchildren who loved their "Papa".  Manuel is survived by his wife of over 44 years, Kathy of Santa Maria.  Two sons and their wives, Michael R. & Carla Jones of Fresno, CA and their children Joshua, Jacob and Sarah.  Mark & Samantha Jones of Santa Maria. and their children Remington and McKenna.  One daughter Michelle Jones Joy and her son Mathew. A brother and sister-in-law Jerry and Betty Jones and a sister, Jeanette Hamer.  Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.  He was preceded in death by his parents Henry Dee and Jessie Jones Needham.