It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Emanuel " Uncle Manny" Sbona of Middletown. He was the son of Emanuel and Sophie ( LaPila) Sbona of 29 Ferry st, where it all started. Uncle Manny was a renaissance man, world traveler, a collector of the most expansive matchbook collection of all the exotic places he visited .and the King of Jeopardy. He was an authority on Wine, restaurants, anywhere in the world, Sinatra, old movies and British History.

He fought the good fight with strength, courage, dignity, wit and a dose of sarcasm.

He is survived by his brother Joe Sbona and wife Phyllis, his devoted sister Lucille ( Sbona) Garofalo, his nephews Billy and Mark Sbona, nephews Anthony and Parker Sbona, Nephew Gary Garofalo and his wife Sue, niece Judi (Sbona) Squadrito and husband Al,and nephews Robert and Matthew Garofalo. . He leaves many Sbona and LaPila cousins including 2 special cousins Tony" The Butcher" LaPila and Louis " Sensei" Lapila. He also leaves 3 closest friends, Connie Drega Cas Kovaleski and Roger Negro of san Diego. He was predeceased by his brother former mayor Anthony " Buddy" Sbona and his wife Connie ( Morello) Sbona and his beloved brother in law Sari Garofalo.

Per his express wishes, there will be no calling hours and Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. D'Angelo Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. A Memorial mass will be held at st. Sebastian Church 155 Washington st n Saturday January 16th at 11 A.M.

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Middlesex Hospital Hospice and Palliative Care Program c/o Office of development 28 Crescent st, Middletown Ct 06457. For all of us watching Jeopardy will never be the same