David Wayne Manzella Sr.

After a beautiful and passion filled life, David Wayne Manzella Sr., 72, peacefully entered into the loving embrace of his heavenly father on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at his home with his family by his side. He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana to Basil and Gloria Manzella, and was later raised by Basil and Josie Manzella. David graduated from Chalmette High and later played D1 football while earning his bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University. He was an educator, carpenter, and talented singer and songwriter, known for his resourcefulness and work ethic. He was originally a resident of Chalmette, Louisiana, and later relocated to Central, Louisiana due to Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

David was radically saved by the power of the Holy Spirit in 1982 and committed his life and talents to sharing the hope he found in Jesus. He was a gifted worship leader, whose purpose was inviting people into the presence of God, and glorifying the mighty name of Jesus with his beautiful voice. He exemplified a man after God’s own heart in the way he treated others and passionately loved his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Jody Lopiccolo Manzella of 44 years, and their salvation and love was and will always be a testimony of the Lord.

David was a loving father and incredible grandfather, called “Pi Paw” by his grandchildren. He enjoyed spending time with his family, watching LSU and Saints football, and reading his bible daily. His legacy and example will live on in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by the love of his life and devoted wife, Jody Lopiccolo Manzella; children, Michelle Dennis (L. Allen Dennis Jr.), Chelly Lozes (Clarke Lozes), Dominique Illg (Daniel Illg), David Manzella Jr. (Grace Manzella), Dylan Manzella, and Destiny Manzella; and grandchildren, L. Allen Dennis III, Brielle Dennis, Clarke Michael Lozes, Lily Lozes, Mikayla Glendening, Giuliana Glendening, Shawn David Glendening, Oliver Manzella, Calvin Manzella, and Pearl Manzella. He is also survived by his brother Brian Manzella.

Thank you to St. Joseph’s Hospice, especially Sheryl and Belinda, for the compassionate care given through David’s battle of Lewy Body Dementia.

2 Timothy 4:7-8 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.

Visitation will be held at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs, Thursday, December 26, from 10 a.m. until service at 12 p.m. The Entombment Service will take place at St. Bernard Memorial Gardens at 701 W Virtue ST Chalmette, LA on Friday, December 27 at 2pm.