Manilton Soares Santos

Manilton Soares Santos, affectionately known as Mani, passed away peacefully at his home in Rockville, Maryland, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 72 years old.

Born in Alagoas, Brazil, Mani carried his love for his homeland with him throughout his life. His passion for soccer was one of the defining parts of who he was. Whether he was watching, playing, or coaching, soccer was never simply a sport to Mani—it was a lifelong passion and a way of connecting with others. He proudly supported Botafogo and the Brazilian national team, and through coaching, he had the opportunity to share his love of the game with countless others.

Mani was also known for being a comical storyteller. He had a way of bringing people into his stories, sharing memories, experiences from his world travel, and moments from his life that his family and friends will carry with them for years to come.

Above all else, Mani was proud of the family he created. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His greatest joy was seeing his family succeed and build lives of their own in the United States after immigrating from Brazil in 1999. His love for his family was evident in the way he cared for them, supported them, and took pride in all that they accomplished.

Mani is survived by his beloved wife, Leda Lilian Haui Santos; his son, Marcel Haui Santos, and daughter, Michelle Santos Dunn; his daughter-in-law, Caroline Elizabeth Santos, and son-in-law, Casey Hunter Dunn; and his beloved grandchildren, Owen Hayes Santos, Mia Lilian Dunn, and Hayden Levi Santos.

He is also survived by his three older siblings, one brother and two sisters, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will deeply miss him.

Though his passing leaves an immeasurable emptiness, his family finds comfort knowing that after a long battle with cancer, Mani is finally at peace and no longer suffering. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A viewing and service will be held on Saturday, August 29th starting at 10am. Family and friends are invited to gather together to honor and remember his life.