Deacon Manuel “Manny” Vilaboy, a deacon of the Archdiocese, died on March 3, 2024 at the age of 95. Deacon Manny was ordained by Archbishop Joseph Bernadin for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati on September 26, 1976. He was among the thirty-nine men ordained in the first permanent deacon ordination in the Archdiocese. He served the Archdiocese as a permanent deacon for forty-seven years.

Upon his ordination, Deacon Manny was assigned to St. Bartholomew Parish, Cincinnati. In 1983, he was assigned to minister to the Spanish-speaking community at Holy Angels Parish in Cincinnati. He was appointed Moderator of the Hispanic Catholic Community in the Cincinnati area in 1988 by Archbishop Daniel Pilarczyk. Deacon Manny was also dedicated to the Catholic Cursillo Movement of Cincinnati, serving as its Spiritual Director for many years until 2005.

Manny was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Eileen (Johnson) Vilaboy, his sons Mark D. Vilaboy and Michael D. Vilaboy, as well as his grandson Christopher Vilaboy. He is survived by his children and their families; Michelle Donaldson-Vilaboy (Scott). Maria Vilaboy, Matthew Vilaboy, Martin Vilaboy (Jennifer), Monica Vilaboy (Marc) and Maurice Vilaboy (Tammy) and fifteen grandchildren.

Manny’s life was rich with experiences and accomplishments. For many years, he called Cincinnati home, where he found fulfillment in his career at Procter and Gamble, retiring happily after years of dedicated service. Over the years, he also took pride in helping his fellow Cubans immigrate to the US. In recent years, he found solace and joy in the sunny landscapes of Phoenix, surrounded by the warmth of family.

A man of deep passions, Manny held a profound love for baseball, relishing in the excitement of the sport. He appreciated the simple pleasures of good food, finding joy in shared meals and sneaking the occasional lottery ticket. Above all, his life was anchored by an unwavering faith in God, which guided him through life’s triumphs and challenges.

His commitment to his faith was evident in his role as a Deacon in the Catholic Church, where he found purpose in serving his community. He took great pride in stewarding the creation of the Cursillo in Cincinnati while also helping his fellow Cubans immigrate to the US, thus leaving an enduring mark on the spiritual landscape of his community.

Manny’s steadfast faith and unwavering optimism touched the lives of many. His presence brought hope and solace to those in need, offering comfort and guidance. As we bid farewell, we celebrate a life well-lived, a legacy of love, faith, and service that will continue to inspire us all.

The celebration of Manny’s life will be honored with a service at Saint Mary Magdalene Church in Gilbert, Arizona, on Monday, March 11th, at 11 a.m. Following the service, a burial will take place at the Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Gilbert.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to pay their respects may consider donating to the Catholic Cursillo of Cincinnati. Your generous contribution will honor Manny’s memory and continue his legacy of service and devotion.

You may mail checks to:

Catholic Cursillo of Cincinnati

P.O. Box 317655

Cincinnati, OH 45231

And note “In Memory Of Manuel D. Vilaboy” in the memo line.