In Loving Memory of Manuel da Rocha
Manuel da Rocha, beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Monday, August 17, 2026 at the age of 54.
Born in Arcos de Valdevez, Portugal on September 8, 1971. Manny was someone who made an impression wherever he went. He was funny and social, always ready with a joke and never one to shy away from sharing his opinion. He liked to be right -- and, as anyone who knew him well can attest, he was usually very sure that he was. His warmth, humor, and larger-than-life personality made him someone people were naturally drawn to, and he had a gift for making even ordinary moments memorable.
Family was at the center of Manny's life, and it was what he was most proud of. He shared a close bond with his siblings and was a beloved son and an amazing uncle. He was generous in the truest sense of the word, the kind of person who would give the shirt off his back to someone in need without thinking twice. His loyalty ran deep, and the people he loved knew they could always count on him.
He found joy in the simple things that made life his own: a good movie, original soundtracks he loved, watching telenovelas with his mother, and cheering on the Rangers and the Yankees. He carried a deep love for Portugal with him throughout his life, a love marked by the kind of "saudade" that only comes from missing a place that feels like home.
But perhaps the greatest reflection of who Manny was can be found in what he was most proud of: his family. He valued the people around him and the time he shared with them. He gave generously, loved fiercely, and brought laughter into the lives of those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but the stories, the jokes, the memories, and the love he gave so freely will remain with the people who knew him best.
He is survived by his beloved mother, Maria Da Rocha; his four sisters: Isabele Pereira, Maria Alice Albuquerque, Maria Goretti da Rocha, and Maria Celeste Basile; and his brother, Fernando da Rocha. He will be deeply missed by his nieces Christina Albuquerque, Audrey Normand, Sabrina Basile, Gabriella Basile, and Isabella Basile, as well as his nephews David Pereira and Matthew Albuquerque. He will also be remembered by his extended family and many friends who loved him dearly.
May he rest in peace and be remembered always.
Memorial Photo Request
As we gather to remember Manny, we invite everyone to bring a favorite photo to share. Photos will be added to a memory board celebrating his life and the people and moments that meant so much to him.
Bring a photo that captures how you remember Manny -- a favorite memory, a silly moment, a family gathering, or simply a picture that makes you think of him. We hope to fill the board with the many ways he was known, loved, and remembered.