Ernest Louis Manlove

Ernest Louis Manlove, affectionately known as Sonny, drew his last earthly breath on November 5, 2024, surrounded by his wife, children, and extended family, The same day he gained his wings his sister, Ruth, gained hers. Born on July 25, 1951, in St. Louis, Sonny embodied a spirit of warmth, acceptance, and selflessness that touched the hearts of all who knew him.

A proud veteran, Sonny served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He faced challenges with courage and resilience, values he held dear. His service was a testament to his deep commitment to his country and others.

Sonny was a devoted family man, cherished by his wife, Cindy. Together, they raised their children: Michelle (Bill) Stringer, Kathrine (Russ), Gatewood, Maria (Joe) Rhymes, Jamie (Patrick) Kane, George Manlove, Eric (Kathryne) Manlove, as well as bonus son Ashish (Tanya) Amin. Sonny and Cindy were foster parents, Youth Ministers and had a hand in putting the finishing touches on their nephews Harward Miller and Johnny Judd. Sonny was a doting grandfather to Kyle Stringer, Adriane (Joe) Mendenhall, Lexi Manlove, Cameron (Sierra) Manlove, Laney Gatewood, Shelby Gatewood, Sydney Gatewood, Jonathon (Taylor) Rhymes, Sean Rhymes, Gracie Rhymes, Patrick Manlove, Wyatt "Skinny Joe" Manlove, Quintin Manlove, Taylor Kane, Ashlyn Kane, and great-grandfather to Easton Knoll, Keegan Doscher, and Alex Manlove, with another on the way.

Sonny was known for his sense of humor and mischievous, playful nature, a gift that his children proudly inherited. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—family, camping and fishing. Many cherished memories were created around a campfire, where he and his father-in-law would bond over stories and a competition to find the most unusual flavor of Schnapps to pass around.

Those who were fortunate enough to know Sonny will always remember him as the most loving, accepting, and compassionate person, someone who protected those he cared about and always put others before himself. His legacy is one of selflessness, teaching us that life is richest when spent caring for those around us.

Sonny is now reunited with his beloved grandson, Wyatt "Skinny Joe" Manlove, his parents, Louis and Emma Manlove, as well as his sisters, Joy Brunnert, Virgie Miller, and Ruth Montelione, who is survived by her husband Joseph. The love they shared continues to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew them.

As we gather to honor and celebrate Sonny’s life, we are reminded of the love that continually surrounds us, just as he so beautifully displayed during his time with us. Though he has departed, his spirit will forever remain a guiding light to his family, echoing in the laughter of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and the warmth of fond memories shared.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 25, at First Baptist Church of O'Fallon, 8750 Veterans Memorial Pkwy, O'Fallon, Missouri, 63366. A gathering will begin at 10:00 am, with funeral service following at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. 

To share a memory of Sonny or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.