Obituary of Mr. James R. McManus

February 4, 2019

James R. McManus, Beloved Democratic District Leader of Hell's Kitchen, passed away peacefully at home on February 4th. Devoted son of the late Eugene and Helen. Loving Brother of the late Eugene Jr., Maureen Spillane, John (jack), and Denis. Cherished uncle of Denise Spillane, Michael Spillane, Denis McManus, Patrick McManus, Thomas McManus, and the late Robert Spillane. Also survived by many loving great-nieces & great-nephews and a Dedicated friend to so many. Reposing at the Crestwood Funeral Home, 445 West 43rd Street, between 9th & 10th Avenue. Friends may call Thursday & Friday, 2-4 & 6-9. There will then be a Mass of Christian Burial Saturday 11:00 AM, at the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 457 West 51st Street. NY, NY. And he will finally be put to rest at Calvary Cemetery, Woodside,NY

Funeral Services

Visitation

February 7, 2019

2:00 PM to 4:00 PM

February 7, 2019

6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Crestwood Funeral Home

445 West 43rd Street

New York, NY 10036

Get Directions

Interment

February 9, 2019

1:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Calvary Cemetery

49-02 Laurel Hill Blvd

Woodside, NY 11377

Get Directions

Interment

February 9, 2019

1:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Calvary Cemetery

49-02 Laurel Hill Blvd

Woodside, NY 11377

Get Directions

Share a Memory

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My condolences for your loss. May fond memories and the love of family and friends comfort you during this time of sorrow. Jeremiah 29:11. May the precious memories sustain you.


Posted by: G. - , - February 6, 2019

I knew Jim since 1971 and followed his fortunes and those of the McManus Democratic Club both as a writer, historian, lawyer and friend for more than 30 years. Although well known in his neighborhood, he was in many ways the unsung hero of the West Side of Manhattan. From the 1970s he played a critical role in the revival of Hell's Kitchen and the theater district. As one of the last of the great Tammany leaders in an era when Tammany Hall had ceased to exist in 1961 ten years before he took office. He unapologetically fought for the ideals of the Democratic party as carried out by his father, grandfather and grand uncle pf helping people of whatever race, color or creed.

He will be sorely missed.

James S. Kaplan, esq


Posted by: James Kaplan - New Rochelle, NY - February 5, 2019

With deep gratitude for all you did for the Vera family back in the 60s. He was the guardian angel of Hell's Kitchen families and working people. Loyalty was important to him and vice versa. We will not see his like again, and that is a pity.


Posted by: Adele Vera-Angel - New York, NY - February 6, 2019

Jim and I were young Democratic District Leaders together. Jim was the District Leader on the West Side, while I was District Leader on the East Side. We were political and social friends. I had a great respect for his family's long political history in Manhattan going back to Theodore Roosevelt. The century long tradition of the McManus political influence will be missed and Jim will be missed having upheld the long tradition of local politics. May he Rest In Peace..


Posted by: Edwin Murphy - Floral Park, NY - February 6, 2019

Losing someone that we love never comes easy. It is truly heartbreaking. May God's promises in Isaiah 65:17 comfort and help you.


Posted by: - , - February 7, 2019


Posted by: a loved one - , - February 7, 2019

I've known Jim since the middle 1970's. I worked with him at the Board of Elections for over 5 years. He had the biggest heart & was the kindest man you would ever want to meet. When I worked with him, he was there every day and rarely took a day off. He was one of a kind and I will deeply miss him & his great sense of humor. My heart bleeds for his entire family. Rest in Peace my friend. May you be with Jackie, Eugene, Denis & Maureen; all at peace in Heaven.


Posted by: VINCENT ABATO - NEW YORK, NY - February 8, 2019

Jim McManus was a respected and beloved leader of the Hell's Kitchen community that he cherished throughout his life.

He was a long-time friend and supporter. While our approaches to politics were very different, Jim cared deeply about the people of his community.

Whether helping neighborhood residents tackle problems, ushering candidates for office through the streets of Hell's Kitchen, or presiding over his legendary St. Patrick's Day festivities, Jim McManus showed his love for New York City and its people, and knew that local communities like Hell's Kitchen are its very heart and soul. He will be greatly missed.


Posted by: Richard Gottfried - New York, NY - February 8, 2019

The passing of our Loved one is a sadness ,but the memories and prayers help ease the pain and help soothe the sadness of your heart.hm


Posted by: - , - February 10, 2019


Posted by: Jim whalen - , - March 7, 2019


Posted by: Jim whalen - , - March 7, 2019

Jim was kind, generous, and humble. He always had time for listening, and I sought his advice many times. He was one of the most important people in my life, a good friend and supporter of my adventures. His stories were wonderful. I will miss his humor and patience, but above all, his caring spirit.


Posted by: Mary Clark - BRISTOL, VA - May 12, 2019