Rhonda Leigh Manuel

Rhonda Leigh Manuel peacefully passed through Heaven’s gates on February 10, 2025, at the age of 61.

Rhonda was born on July 29, 1963, in Fort Worth to Raymond and Edna Smith. She was raised in Burleson, TX and graduated from Burleson High School in 1981. She was very active in sports from a young age exceling in basketball and softball.

Rhonda loved children and all children loved her. She was “Grammy” “Aunt Rhonda” or “Ms. Manuel” to those who knew her. She found the most joy when cheering on her grandkids at their sporting events. To her daughters and countless others, Rhonda was known as “Coach” and someone who made a difference in the lives of others.

Rhonda never met a stranger and was always so welcoming. She always thought of others before herself and never asked for anything in return. She was a great friend to so many. She loved country dancing, laying out by the pool, helping coach the Red Sox Miracle League baseball team, thrifting, and watching her grandkids at their sporting events. 

Rhonda was a dedicated and longtime member of Joshua ISD. She spent over 25 years working in the Special Education Department at both Joshua High School and Staples Elementary where she poured into the lives of many teachers and students. Her fun outgoing personality, love for dress up days, acceptance of others and kindness brought joy to those around her. She built many lasting friendships over the years there.

Rhonda is survived by her husband of 17 years Raphel Manuel, of Godley; daughter Brandy Buck and son in law Ryan Buck of Mansfield, daughter Britni Roberts and fiancé Rocky Anderson of Dallas; grandchildren Brynley Buck and Blayde Buck, Rhonda was looking forward to her daughter Britni’s first child; grand pups Koko and Theodore; brothers Gene Smith and wife Eileen of Joshua, Keith Smith and wife Irene of White Settlement, Scott Smith and wife Shirley of Joshua, Kenny Smith and wife Tammy of Wyoming; step children Jerry Manuel, Tiffany Pruitt, Floyd Manuel, and Dusty Manuel; step grandchild Kylie Pruitt; nieces and nephews Erin, Ashley, Christina, Crystal, Saylee, Mekka, Bianca, Ryan, Justin, Michael, Diamond, and Kenny; many great nieces and nephews; and aunt Martha Wills.

She was preceded in death by Raymond and Edna Smith.

The viewing will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2025 from 6:00-8:00PM at Lucas Funeral Home in Burleson at 518 SW Johnson Ave. The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at First Methodist Mansfield at 3:00 PM at 777 N. Walnut Creek Drive, Mansfield, TX with burial to follow at Burleson Memorial Cemetery, 490 Memorial Plaza Burleson, TX 76028.

Flowers may be sent to Lucas Funeral Home in Burleson. Memorial Donations may be made to www.miracleleaguedfw.com and click donate in honor of our beautiful mom.