Manuel Lazaro Sibila

Born on September 20, 1947, in Matanzas, Cuba, Manny was the cherished son of Juan Manuel Sibila and Elvira De Prado. After immigrating to the United States in 1955, Manny grew up in Key West, where he met the love of his life, Diana, at Key West High School.

Manny was a proud member of Florida Technological University's first graduating class, now the University of Central Florida. He dedicated much of his professional life to education and mentorship, starting his career as an Orange County Public School teacher.

His passion for science and education led to a feature story in the Orlando Sentinel, recognizing his Earth Day efforts with middle school students. As his career progressed, he transitioned into the pharmaceutical and chemical industries as a highly respected sales manager.

An active and adventurous spirit, Manny found joy in traveling for both business and pleasure, long bike rides, beach days, and winter trips to Jackson Hole. His warmth, humor, and steady presence touched many lives.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Diana; his son, David; and his younger brother, Michael. Though Parkinson’s Disease brought difficult challenges in his later years, Manny, with the support of his family, met them with grace, courage, and an unshakable spirit.

His legacy lives on in the memories of family, friends, students, and colleagues whose lives he enriched.

A gathering of family and friends will occur on Saturday, May 3 at 10:00 AM followed by a celebration of life at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home located at 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL 34734. There will be an inurnment following the celebration of life at Woodlawn Memorial Park at 12:00 PM.

In Lieu of Flowers, the family would like donations to be made in Manny's name to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.