Describing Manuel Gil “Manny” in writing only is a true disservice because of how unique he was and how far-reaching his legacy is. To tell the story of his remarkable life, accomplishments, and death, we start in Havana, Cuba where Manny was born on March 12, 1959 to parents Dr. Clorinda Cabrera Gil and Rev. Manuel Gil Sr. In 1961 and in the immediate aftermath of the Cuban Revolution, Manny, his parents and his sister Gloria all moved to New Orleans, Louisiana where he was largely raised. He graduated from West Jefferson High School in 1977 before attending Delgado College and Loyola University. During this time, he also met his eventual wife Thais Gil who he married on May 11, 1983 at Iglesia Bautista Betania by Rev Manuel Gil Sr. His union with Thais led Manny to the next major chapter of his life in Miami, FL where he was a resident for 37 years. Manny finished his bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas University in Miami, FL with a degree in Political Science and with Dean’s List distinction in 1980, 1984, and 1985. Soon thereafter, Thais gave birth to firstborn Gabriel Gil in 1987. A second son, Kevin Gil was born in 1993. While raising their two sons in Miami, Manny had an exceptional career as a job placement specialist for over 20 years. He had a late career change working alongside his son Gabriel at Progressive Insurance in the claims department. In January 2021 he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer before suddenly passing away on April 19th, 2021 at the age of 62.
Just as important as Manny’s life events was his truly unique and authentic personality that makes it so difficult to adequately describe him. Meeting Manny was meeting a captivating storyteller, a playful comedian, a witty cynic, a charming conversationalist. Moreover, his charisma was complemented by broad and diverse knowledge of geography, politics, sports, travel, music and culture. And yet, Manny’s legacy will be defined most by his family and notably, his two sons, who were his life’s work.
“The great use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it” -William James
Although it ended too soon, Manny made great use of his life and his legacy will be strongly felt for generations to come. He is survived by his ever-loving wife of 37 years, Thais Gil, who stood by his side through sickness and health. He is also survived by his two sons Gabriel Gil, MBA candidate, and Kevin Gil, MD, daughter in law Mariel Gil, grandchildren Mason and Rylen Gil, mother-in-law Ana Cabrera Fernandez. He will be lovingly remembered by his sister Gloria (Kevin) Reimherr and affectionately remembered as the “cool uncle” by Tony (Celena) and Jaime Avila.
While Manny spent the majority of his working years building a future for his family, he also ensured his own future in eternity by rebuilding his relationship with his lord and savior Jesus Christ. He was a devout Christian and a dedicated member of Miami Vineyard Church. His family takes solace in knowing that he is no longer in pain and is now enjoying the gift of eternal life.
The memorial service will be held on Tuesday, April 27th from 8:30-11:30pm at Bernardo Garcia Funeral Home (8215 Bird Rd, Miami, FL 33155). Due to Covid-19, the memorial service will be limited to 35 people. The burial will take place at 1pm on April 28th at Memorial Plan at Miami Memorial Park Cemetery with no capacity restrictions (6200 SW 77th Ave, Miami, FL 33143). Memorials can be made to Miami Vineyard Church at
https://pushpay.com/g/miamivineyard. Cards, flowers, and plants may be sent to Bernardo Garcia Funeral Home.