Manuel Gerardo Venegas, affectionately known as Manny to those closest to him, passed away on February 16, 2026, in Birmingham, Alabama, leaving behind a legacy of steadfast dedication and unwavering faith. Born on August 24, 1938, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, Manny’s journey through life was marked by a profound commitment to his family, his work, and his Christian beliefs.
Manuel is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Lydia Alicia Venegas, with whom he shared a life full of love and devotion. Together they raised their two children, Juan Manuel (Toni) Venegas and their children, Noel (Steven) Leopold, Jessica Venegas, Kathryn (John Mark) Porter, Joshua (Faith) Venegas, David Venegas, Lily Venegas, Julia Venegas, Samuel Venegas, Melody Venegas, and Joseph Venegas, and his great grandchild, Caleb Robert Leopold, and his daughter, Alicia (John Edward) Johnson, and their children, Laura Elizabeth Johnson and Rebecca Johnson Caltabiano (Nik), and his great-granddaughter, Mia Grace Caltabiano. Manuel also leaves behind a loving brother, Rafael Adrián Venegas, his half-brother, Evan (Sonia) Venegas, niece, Ambar Venegas, half-sister, Lizmarie (Lichy) Venegas (Tony), half-sister, Trinidad (Trini) de los Angeles Venegas (Victor), and several nieces and nephews who will all cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Tony Collazo.
Manny’s life was a testament to hard work and consistency. For 45 years, he dedicated his professional life to the Army Aviation Test Activity, from which he retired with honors. His colleagues knew him as a man who never wavered in his responsibilities and who could always be relied upon for his thoroughness and integrity.
His dedication at work was only matched by his commitment to his faith. A faithful servant of the Lord, Manny was a cornerstone of his local Christian community. He practiced his Catholic faith with fervor and was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus. Manny’s passion for the Word of God was evident to all who knew him, as he spent countless hours reading his Bible and living out its teachings. His hunger for spiritual knowledge and understanding was an inspiration to many.
Manny also found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed conversing over C.B. Radio during his drives home from work, engaging with friends and strangers alike. This hobby was one of the many ways he connected with the world around him, always eager to lend an ear or share a word of encouragement.
His legacy is one of building a strong foundation for his grandchildren, instilling in them the values of faith, family, and hard work. Manny’s life was a blueprint for how to live with purpose and grace, and his influence will continue to guide his loved ones for generations to come.
As we bid farewell to Manuel Gerardo Venegas, we are reminded of the impact one life can have on so many. Manny was a beacon of light in his community, a loving husband, a caring father and grandfather, and a devout Christian. His memory will be held in the hearts of those he touched forever, and his spirit will live on through the love and lessons he imparted. Manny’s journey on earth has concluded, but the echoes of his life’s work will resonate for eternity.
A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 5514 Double Oak Lane, Birmingham, AL 35242.
