Menachem Menasha, affectionately known as Manny, 77, of Smithfield, Rhode Island, passed away suddenly on June 22, 2026. Born on October 14, 1948, in Jerusalem, Israel. Manny lived a vibrant life marked by adventure, resilience, and a larger-than-life presence that left an indelible impression on everyone he met. A man of remarkable courage and deep connection to his homeland, Manny served as a Commando in the Israel Defense Forces, bravely fighting in both the Six-Day War and the Yom Kippur War.
Although never having finished high school, Manny became a very successful businessman. Manny later channeled his determination into a successful 40-year career in the car business. He was most recently at the BMW of Norwood consistently achieving salesman of the month and gaining many accolades in the business. A true entrepreneur at heart, he occasionally stepped away from the industry to pursue his passions, which included opening two restaurants. The kitchen was his sanctuary; feeding people, entertaining guests, and bringing loved ones together around food was where he was truly happiest. When he wasn’t cooking, Manny enjoyed the thrill of the casino, specifically “rolling the dice”, embracing chance and excitement at the tables with his signature enthusiasm.
He was the beloved husband of Phyllis (Travisano) Menasha, with whom he shared over 25 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and a shared passion for exploring the world, including frequent trips to Israel, cruises with the friends and many other adventures around the world.
He was the loving father of Melissa Washburn and her husband Nick of Middleboro; and in recent years earned his favorite title of all, Saba, to his “Babies” Abby and Max, who brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his dear siblings, Rikki Gal, Tami Cohen, Sarit Twizer, and Eliko Ner Gaon, all of Israel, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family members across the miles. He was predeceased by his dear parents Dina & Shimon Ner Gaon.
A memorial service is scheduled for 10AM on July 2, 2026 at Schlossberg Family’s Chapel on the Hill, 824 Washington St., Canton, MA. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Manny’s life.
Shiva will be held immediately following the service at the home of Nick and Melissa Washburn from 12-3:00pm and 4-7:00pm. 166 Plymouth St, Middleboro, MA 02346.
Manny Menasha Funeral Service
Zoom Link (see below)
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5288320605?pwd=dVFjQlUzWmVDYmFhVGwwZkNVSXBLQT09&omn=89194967612
will be activated at 9:45AM
(15 minutes prior to the start of the service)
As a courtesy to the Menasha family, it is imperative that upon entry into Zoom, kindly ensure that your microphone is properly muted , so as to not affect the audio or video stream.
~ Thank You ~
4 Condolences for Menachem “Manny” Menasha
Condolences(4)
Eric Haugen says
June 25, 2026 at 7:53 pmTalk about someone larger than Life , Manny was the kind of person who you instantly knew would be a life long friend, imposing, but a gentle giant, he was good natured and a talented salesperson, and an incredible cook, it was an honor to share any meal he created. He and I would share our military stories, and experiences, and his love of his Unit in Isreal, mine in the U.S., I offer my Deepest Condolences to Phyllis, Manny’s daughter Melissa, and her Family. Rest In Peace, Manny, you will be missed , but Not Forgotten.
Eric Haugen says
June 26, 2026 at 7:39 pmTalk about a person who was larger than Life ! , Manny was the kind of person you met once, and you knew you made a lifelong friend. He was imposing in stature but a true gentle giant, He was extremely proud of his Isreali Military Unit, and he would talk with me about my U.S. Unit, as we shared that in common. His cooking was World class, and if you were lucky enough to taste his meals, it was amazing. To Phyllis and Manny’s Daughter, Melissa, and her Family and Friends, Deepest Condolences, Rest in Peace Manny, You will not be Forgotten.
Margie (Farnsworth) Shapiro says
June 28, 2026 at 1:01 amMy deepest condolences to Melissa and family – I knew your Dad when he was married to your Mom in the 1980’s and you came to birthday parties for my kids a couple of times. Your Dad was always larger than life and gregarious – I’m so sorry for his sudden passing. May his memory be a constant blessing.
Claudia Haugen says
June 28, 2026 at 5:06 pmOur deepest condolences to Phyllis, Melissa, Nick and family. Manny was one of a kind for sure. RIP Claudia&Eric Haugen ❤️