Johnnie Earnest Manuel

The staff at Heishman Funeral Home, Inc. send condolences to the family of Johnnie Earnest Manuel. Johnnie Ernest Manuel, of Woodstock, Virginia, passed away on February 24th, 2026. He was a devoted husband, father, coach, mentor, public servant, and friend whose life was defined by generosity, service, and deep love for his community. Born in Broad Run, Virginia, Johnnie spent his youth running the hills and getting into good-natured mischief with his older siblings Kenny and Sis. Those early years shaped the grit, independence, and quiet humor that would define him for the rest of his life. He dedicated nearly 40 years of faithful service to Virginia Power, where he built not only a career but lifelong friendships. Johnnie believed in hard work, showing up, and doing the job right — values he carried into every part of his life. He served his community for many years in different capacities; a planning commissioner, a town council member and later as Vice Mayor — or, as he liked to joke, the “Mayor of Vice.” A devoted man of faith, he also served on the church council at Emanuel Lutheran Church several times. A true builder in every sense of the word, Johnnie owned every tool imaginable and rarely met a problem he couldn’t fix. If something was broken — in a home, on a field, or in someone’s spirit — he showed up. He gave his time, strength, and steady presence without hesitation. He founded the Shenandoah County Soccer League and worked tirelessly to bring baseball and soccer to Central High School, creating opportunities for countless children to learn teamwork, discipline, and joy. He coached both soccer and baseball for many years, pouring his heart into every practice and game. To his players, he was more than a coach — he was a steady mentor who believed in bringing out the best in others. In recent months, as his health declined, Johnnie E faced each day with the same steadiness that marked his life. He had no regrets, and with quiet confidence, he would say, “I will see you again.” Those who knew him best knew this: he consistently put the needs of others above his own. He had a heart of gold — quiet in its goodness but unwavering in its loyalty. His greatest pride was his family, and his greatest legacy is the lives he shaped through love and service. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Linda; his children, Brent (Kasey), Scott (Raquel), and Trish; and his beloved grandchildren, Zachary, Ashby, Christian, Jack, Cameron, Mary Rose, Kiki, Luther, and Vivian. A Celebration of Life will be held at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Woodstock, Virginia, on Saturday, February 28th, at 11:00 a.m. There will be a luncheon following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Emanuel Lutheran Church or the Shenandoah County Soccer League.

Johnnie Earnest Manuel

January 27, 1941 - February 24, 2026