John Ernest Manchaca, 95, of Shreveport, formerly of Gary, passed away on Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 19, 2016, at his home in Shreveport. He was born on April 27, 1920, in Nacogdoches to the late Fred and Lena Sepulvado Manchaca. John served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII, from 1941-1945, having earned a purple heart before being honorably discharged. He married Mary Leelon Rodgers on June 14, 1947, in Houston, and she preceded him in death on March 31, 2004, after 56 years of marriage. John worked as a truck driver for York Transport and later Missouri Pacific until his retirement. He also owned his own cleaning business and in his later years worked as a greeter at Wal-Mart. John married Regina Louise "Gina" Schmuser on Jan. 14, 2006 in Keithville. He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and gardening. He was one of Jehovah's Witnesses and was devoted to his ministry. John moved to Shreveport in 2014, from Gary. He was also preceded in death by 4 brothers and step-daughters, Juanita White and Barbara Reeves.

Mr. Manchaca is survived by his wife Gina of Shreveport; daughters, Gwen Stephenson of Carthage and Loretta Turlington and husband Dean of Marshall; step-daughter, Joy Hicks of Long Branch; sister, Lois Smith of Houston; 14 grandchildren including Monica Stephenson Malinosky, Loren Stephenson, and Clint Stephenson; 23 great-grandchildren; and numerous great-great-grandchildren. Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many friends also survive Mr. Manchaca.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2016, at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Mr. Adrian Langevin officiating.

A guestbook may be signed online at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.