Stephen Robert Manuccia

It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Stephen Manuccia, our beloved husband, father, Pop, brother, uncle, friend, and bandmate. Stephen was a kind, loving, and gentle soul who devoted his life to the people he cherished. He brought joy and warmth to everyone who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. He will always be remembered for his kind eyes, warm smile, infectious sense of humor, and exceptional musical talent.

Stephen was born March 22, 1954 to Joseph and Nancy Manuccia in Brooklyn, NY and was the eldest of five children. He was a talented musician who graduated from Brooklyn College with a degree in music. He met his soulmate, Jo Ann, when they were just 15 years old. Theirs was a beautiful friendship and love story that continued for decades. After moving to San Diego, they married in 1978, and their love and devotion to one another have been an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to witness it. Together, they raised their son, Michael, and daughter, Christine. Stephen was a dedicated and loving father, affectionately known as "Pop" to his adoring grandchildren, who considered him their favorite person, idol, and playmate.

Stephen was a man of gratitude, often expressing his appreciation for the people he loved. He never took a single day for granted. During family gatherings, he would quietly reflect and say, "This is what life is all about." He cared deeply for his family at every stage of their lives - whether it was caring for his young grandchildren or supporting his elderly parents. He was at his wife Jo Ann’s side throughout her recent health challenges and lovingly cared for her throughout her recovery. He enjoyed crafting healthy, nourishing meals for others, an expression of love he learned from his family. With a background and skillset in construction, he could troubleshoot any problem. Stephen had a generous spirit and was always ready to lend a hand to family, friends, and neighbors in need.

With a wonderful sense of humor, Stephen could be silly, dark, and, as his wife would say, sometimes even a little sophomoric. His humor was contagious, and he had a gift for infusing everyday situations with laughter and fun. The world will undoubtedly be a little less joyful without him.

Professionally, Stephen’s intelligence and exceptional work ethic led to a long and successful career in the commercial real estate industry. He began as an electrician and later became an electrical foreman, working in the medical, biotech, and tech industries as a member of IBEW Local 569. He went on to manage facilities for companies like Nokia and Microsoft across Southern California. Stephen was a lifelong learner, always seeking to expand his knowledge and continue his professional development. He earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and served as a mentor to many.

Though Stephen’s career was in facilities management and electrical work, music was his true passion. At every stage of his life, music was at the heart of who he was. He taught his children and grandchildren to love and appreciate music, and inspired countless others to pick up an instrument, sing, and embrace the joy of making music together. Over the years, Stephen contributed his talents to the church music ministry at St.Thérèse of Carmel Catholic Church and played keyboard or guitar with several bands. Recently, he was preparing for a performance with his current band. There was nothing Stephen loved more than jamming with his family and friends.

Stephen is predeceased by his parents, Joseph Manuccia and Nancy Manuccia. He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Jo Ann Manuccia; his children, Michael Manuccia (Maria) and Christine Dubuque (Tommy); five adoring grandchildren: Jamie, Charlie, Dominic, Emma and Stella; his siblings, Richard Manuccia, James Manuccia, John Manuccia (Cathy), Laura Nobiensky (Tony), and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who have been inspired and loved by him.

Like a true rockstar, Stephen was living his best life until the very end, and we can take comfort knowing he's now playing in a new band in God's heavenly kingdom. We will miss him dearly. Until we meet again, his melody of love will live on in our hearts and guide our steps - one beat at a time.

In memory of Stephen’s joy of sharing music with others, his family asks that donations be made to the Save the Music Foundation (donate.savethemusic.org), to help promote music education for future generations.

A Funeral Mass will be held in Stephen’s memory on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 1:00 pm, at St. Thérèse of Carmel Catholic Church located at 4355 Del Mar Trails Road, San Diego, CA 92130.