HEATH SPRINGS, SC ~ Ralph J. "Steve" McManus, 88, of Heath Springs, passed away at home Thursday, December 21, 2023. Born March 24, 1935, in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Effel Jack "E.J." McManus, Sr. and Etta Melton McManus. He was married to the late Marcine Mackey McManus.

Steve retired from Springs Industries as a loom fixer after serving over 40 years. Steve was known by many names – J. Ralph, Paw Paw, Coffee Break and daddy. He had a silent, strong exterior but was a light-hearted and generous soul. He loved the simple things in life and spending time with his precious family. He was an avid outdoorsman taking every chance to go hunting or fishing. Steve never had a formal education but could fix almost anything.

He was a faithful member at Fork Hill Baptist Church and never left a call unanswered to help around the church whether it was serving ice or yard work.

Steve is survived by his daughter, Sheila McManus; son, Clint McManus (Sharon Lowery); grandson, Michael McManus; many adopted grandchildren; four brothers, Olin McManus, James McManus, Henry McManus, and Carl Lee McManus; one sister, Dori M. Kullbom; and his grand pups, Bindi and Oscar.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by two brothers, E.J. McManus, Jr. and John McManus; and five sisters, Mae Doris M. Hinson, Louise M. Bowers, Lillian M. Phillips, Alene M. Catoe, and Mary Helen M. Phillips.

The Celebration of Life Service for Steve will be 11:00 am Thursday, December 28, 2023, at Fork Hill Baptist Church officiated by Rev. Dale Walters. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:00 am, one hour prior to the service, at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fork Hill Baptist Church, 1125 Fork Hill Road, Heath Springs, SC 29058.