Manuel McCaskill, Jr. age 70 was born on September 24, 1952. He passed away on June 30, 2023 and is now in eternal peace with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was in divine fellowship with his family and friends at his bedside.
Manuel, which means “God with Us” the third child of Manuel, Sr. and Georgia Newman McCaskill of Long Branch, NJ. where “Boopie”, as he was affectionately known by family and friends was born and raised. An adventurous and funny spirit, Boopie enjoyed his life growing up on Lippincott Avenue where he ran sprint races in the summers, played baseball, flag football, made go-carts, and fixed our bicycles’ flat tires in the yard with his friends and siblings.
In Elementary School he learned to play the trumpet and developed a love for music. Once in High School, he was a member of the Long Branch track and field team. He graduated from Long Branch Senior High School class of 1970. After graduating Manuel was employed at the Asbury Park Press for several years.
Boopie was an avid lover of Blues and Jazz, and over the years acquired an extensive collection of albums and compact discs and would even be the DJ for family and community gatherings.
Manuel retired from his position as Housekeeping Manager at the Summit Hotel in 2019. He was a valued employee and recognized as employee of the month during his tenure in the position. Still not quite ready to retire, he embarked on a new career as a part-time Crossing Guard for Millburn Public Schools.
He loved, nurtured, and supported his children, grandchildren, parents and siblings.
He was predeceased by his parents Georgia Newman McCaskill, and Manuel McCaskill, Sr. both originally from Angelus, South Carolina.
He leaves behind his children Shaneal Jones of Asbury Park, and Kalie Jones of Brooklyn, NY; three grandchildren Quincy, Qua’Zhaun and Un’Nahti of Asbury Park; siblings James N. McCaskill (Jan) of Eatontown, Barbara J. Wall (Charles) of South River, Robin Martin of Delran and Eric McCaskill, Sr. (Ivette) of Ocean Township; his longtime partner, and caregiver Brenda Hartman of Union, NJ; as well as a host of loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, in-laws, Aunt Etta Newman of Georgia and a host of caring friends and co-workers.
**In lieu of flowers please make a donation in the name of Manuel McCaskill, Jr., to the American Cancer Society.
Boopie always greeted my mother and I with a smile and hug during the family functions. I will remember the good time had in New Orleans and Greece. The dance floor won’t the same without you. Love Nikki.
Words cannot express the sadness we feel upon hearing of your passing. You held a special place in our hearts, not only as a cousin but also as an uncle figure. Your presence at family cookouts and events brought so much joy and laughter.
We will forever cherish the memories we created together, the stories shared, and the bond we formed. Your absence will be deeply felt within our family. We will miss your warm smile, your infectious laughter, and the love you always showered upon us.
As we mourn your loss, we take solace in knowing that you are now at peace. Your spirit will live on in our hearts, and the love we have for you will never fade. Rest assured that your memory will be honored and cherished in all our future gatherings.
Cousin-Uncle Boopie, you touched our lives in profound ways, and we are grateful for the time we had with you. Though you may no longer be physically present, your spirit will forever remain a guiding light within our family.
May you find eternal peace and may our love accompany you on your journey beyond.
With heartfelt love and deepest condolences,
Craig Reeves
My Sincere Condolences to the McCaskill and Wall Family. Wishing you peace, comfort, and lots of love at this time of sorrow. My heart goes out to you all at this difficult time. Boopie was always the life of the party I remember we all going to Jazz Concerts with him in New York City. And he loved his Jazz. He will be missed. R.I.P. Keeping you all in my prayers.
His kindness, generosity and love won’t be soon forgotten. It’s in our hearts.
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” Revelation 21:4 KJV