Manuel Companies Mourns Loss of Co-Owner Greg Manuel as Condolences and Tributes Pour In
The Lafayette community is heartbroken after the tragic loss of Greg Manuel, co-owner of Manuel Builders, who died in a plane crash near Oakbourne Country Club on Thursday morning. Manuel, 73, was the sole occupant of the aircraft, which went down shortly after taking off from Lafayette Regional Airport. The crash remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Manuel Companies released an official statement expressing their profound sorrow over Greg Manuel’s passing, highlighting his role not just as a business leader but as a pillar of the community. "Greg’s dedication to Manuel Companies went beyond business; he was a pillar of our community, known for his unwavering generosity, commitment to the betterment of those around him, and his genuine care for the people whose lives he touched," the statement read. The company also requested privacy for the Manuel family as they grieve this significant loss, noting that more details about memorial arrangements will be shared in due course.
The Lafayette Parish School System (LPSS) extended their condolences, emphasizing Greg Manuel’s generous contributions to local education. Manuel Builders partnered with the Love Our Schools Foundation, including donating a house for a giveaway that benefitted LPSS schools. Lafayette Parish Superintendent Francis Touchet, Jr., described Manuel's impact, stating, “Greg’s commitment to supporting education and the unwavering kindness of him and his wife have left an indelible mark on all of us.”
Jaci Russo, Co-Founder and CEO of the local advertising agency Russo, who has worked with Manuel Builders, also paid tribute to Manuel, noting, “Our prayers are with the Manuel family and everyone in our community who will be affected by the loss of this great leader.”
Similarly, Missy Bienvenu Andrade, President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Acadiana, praised Manuel's leadership and values, expressing her deep condolences to the Manuel family.
Allison Babin, Marketing Director for Manuel Companies, shared a personal tribute to Greg Manuel, reflecting on his impact on the company and the community. “I will forever miss his abundance of stories and meaningful conversations,” Babin said, urging the community to pray for Manuel’s family, including his wife Missy, his children, and grandchildren.
Greg Manuel was not only a prominent figure in the business community but also a dedicated philanthropist. His company, started by his father about 60 years ago, grew from a small family business into a well-respected home building company with in-house architects, a design team, and sister companies, Manuel Commercial and Manuel Custom Cabinets. Despite the growth, Manuel was committed to maintaining the values of integrity, excellence, and community that defined his company’s mission.
Manuel’s philanthropic efforts were well known, including the construction of homes for the annual Love Our Schools Home Giveaway, which raises funds to support public education in Lafayette Parish. According to The Advocate, he also donated a home in 2015 to a Youngsville family affected by a tragic car accident. His long-standing involvement in the Acadian Home Builders Association and recognition with the Randolph Trappey Distinguished Service Award in 2015 further exemplify his commitment to the community.
The crash site, located near the 13th hole of Oakbourne Country Club, has been secured by local authorities as the investigation continues. Lafayette Fire Chief Robert Benoit noted that while the immediate hazards have been contained, the full investigation could take months. Bystanders reported seeing the plane approach the golf course's netting before veering away and crashing, with witnesses describing the harrowing moments before the impact.
As the Lafayette community mourns this loss, tributes and condolences continue to pour in—a testament to the profound impact Greg Manuel had on those around him. His legacy of generosity, leadership, and community spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.
