With profound sadness and deep love, yet unwavering faith, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Eleanora (Nora) M. Manalang, 83, who went home to be with the Lord on March 15, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by the love of her entire family.
She was a treasured daughter of the late Soledad Macapagal, a beloved wife of the late Emmanuel Manalang, and a devoted mother to Elgin (Leigh) Manalang, Emmette (David) Mueller, Ean (Shannon) Manalang and Errol Manalang (late Ben Irvin). Nora was a proud and loving grandmother. She was called Lola to Adilyn (Greg), Grayson, Ethan, Maximilian, Gabriel, Ashley, Deven, Andrew, Audrey, Eleanora, Lucas, Oliver, and to the late Gerard.
She was also a cherished great Lola also known as G-Lo to Gregory, Joseph, Noralyn, Eliza and Kolbe (due April 2026).
Many nieces and nephews even recognized her as their second mother.
She grew up in Cabanatuan City, a small province in the Philippines. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Science and Nutrition at the Philippine Women’s University in Manila. There she met her husband, Emmanuel. Once she settled in the United States in 1977, she worked a few jobs before permanently working for Christian Hospitals as a surgical technician for 35 years before retiring in 2011.
A woman of deep and abiding Catholic faith, Nora lived her life as a reflection of God’s love. Even in the face of illness, she remained steadfast, trusting in God’s plan and finding peace in His promises. She enjoyed life to the fullest, always shared her smile and demonstrated strength in the grace, dignity and hope she carried every single day.
Nora dedicated her life to loving her family, friends and others. She was the heart and foundation of her family; a wonderful mother whose love knew no bounds. Her thoughtfulness, generosity, kindness and outgoing spirit touched everyone she met. She was loved by so many.
Growing up as an only child, she wanted her children to get married and give her lots of grandchildren. She was blessed with thirteen, including three sets of twins. She taught her children how to live, but more importantly how to love with all their hearts, practice their faith and how to show mercy.
Her life was a testimony of resilience, selflessness and devotion. She found joy in sending greeting cards, giving gifts, going on outings, traveling and most especially, purpose in caring for others.
Though cancer challenged her body, it never conquered her spirit. She was just thankful for every day that God gave her. She remained a source of light, powered by the Lord and the Blessed Mother Mary, reminding all who knew her that faith is stronger than fear. She lived life without regret, about twelve years since her lung cancer diagnosis in 2014.
Nora was one of a kind. Her infectious smile and thoughtfulness will never be forgotten. She will be deeply missed as a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, godmother, aunt, cousin and a faithful friend.
Services: Visitation will be held Monday, April 6 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm at Kutis Funeral Home (South County Chapel) 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd, St. Louis, MO 63129. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 7 at 10:00 am beginning at Kutis Funeral Home Chapel proceeding to Assumption-Mattese Catholic Church 4725 Mattis Rd, St. Louis, MO 63128. Entombment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery and Mausoleum, 980 Graham Rd, Florissant, MO 63031.