Jaelyn and Lenora Manke

With profound sadness and broken hearts, we announce that Jaelyn Lyric Manke, age 16, and her beloved sister, Lenora River Manke, age 11, entered into the arms of their Savior together on July 31, 2026.

Jaelyn was born on January 3, 2010, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and from the very beginning brought light, kindness, and joy to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Lenora followed on June 6, 2015, filling every room she entered with laughter, curiosity, and a spirit that could brighten even the darkest day.

More than sisters, Jaelyn and Lenora were inseparable best friends. They shared countless adventures, dreams, and a bond that only they could understand. Together they danced at Richards School of the Dance, trained in Tae Kwon Do at American Black Belt Academy, attended Life Fest, and lived each day with a faith in Jesus Christ that shined through their words and actions. They shared a deep love for music, especially Josiah Queen and Strings and Heart. Music wasn't just something they listened to. It was another form of nourishment for their souls, filling their hearts with joy, peace, and worship.

Jaelyn had a gentle heart, an incredible work ethic, and a maturity far beyond her years. She loved the color pink and could often be found with a book in her hands, as reading was one of her greatest joys. Dance was one of her greatest passions, especially pointe, and it wasn't uncommon to see her gracefully dance from one end of a room to the other simply because it brought her joy.

She also loved Tae Kwon Do, where her ballerina grace carried over into the ring. Her sparring style, highlighted by her graceful kicks, reflected both her athleticism and the discipline she poured into everything she did.

Her greatest gift, however, was her heart for others. Jaelyn possessed an exceptional love for helping people and was always looking for ways to encourage, serve, and care for those around her. She was learning sign language so she could better connect with and help others, reflecting the compassion that defined her life.

Despite being only sixteen years old, Jaelyn's dedication was extraordinary. She worked three jobs, demonstrating a level of responsibility, determination, and perseverance that inspired everyone around her. She had recently been accepted to Maranatha Baptist University, with plans to eventually pursue her dream of becoming a Christian counselor or therapist. She believed deeply in helping people find hope, healing, and strength, and her love and devotion to serving others was exceptional.

Jaelyn also had a special place in her heart for the animals she loved and cared for. Milo her rabbit, Shalom her fish, and Mango her beloved cat were treasured companions who brought her comfort and joy. Her grace, kindness, intelligence, unwavering faith, and selfless heart left a lasting impression on everyone blessed to know her.

Lenora's vibrant personality was impossible to miss. She loved the colors red and black, adored animals, and found endless joy climbing at the park, collecting bracelets, and listening to music. She dreamed of one day becoming a pop star or musician, and her love for music reflected the joy she carried in her heart.

At Richard's School of the Dance, she especially loved performing silks, where her adventurous spirit and fearless enthusiasm shined. In Tae Kwon Do, Lenora was phenomenal at forms, practicing with dedication and precision while always helping both her mom and Jaelyn improve their technique. She delighted in building creative Lego masterpieces, enjoyed gymnastics, embraced every opportunity to learn a new musical instrument, and brought joy to everyone around her with her infectious smile, boundless curiosity, and loving heart.

Lenora's love for animals was just as extraordinary. She adored Pebbles her mouse, and **Figgy **her beloved cat, who were treasured companions and brought her endless happiness.

Together, Jaelyn and Lenora filled the lives of everyone they touched with immeasurable love, joy, laughter, kindness, compassion, and unforgettable memories. Though their time on earth was far too short, the impact they made will be felt for generations. They inspired others through their faith, their generosity, and the way they loved without reservation.

Jaelyn and Lenora are lovingly survived by their Mother, Lindsey (Jefferey Watts); their Grandparents, Richard and Caryn Lewandowski; their Brother, Shepherd Watts; their Sister, Layla (Hayden) Lessor; their Great-Grandmother, Betty Simpson; their Uncle, Nicholas Lewandowski (fiancée Maggie Fell); their Aunts and Uncles, Tina Manke, Gloria Escobar, and Travis (Sandy) Escobar; Jaelyn's beloved best friend, Ava Thrall; and many other loving family members, including Connor Watts and Alayna Watts, along with cherished friends, classmates, teammates, teachers, coaches, coworkers and all whose lives were forever touched by their kindness, compassion, and love.

A private memorial service will be held. A public candlelight vigil will be held Sunday August 9th at 7pm and a public celebration of life will be held on Sunday August 23 from 2pm to 6pm. Both located at Poplar Creek (4541 County Rd K.) and are open to family, friends, and anyone who Jaelyn and Lenora impacted through their lives.

To show your support for the family and your love of the girls, the family would appreciate wearing the girl's favorite colors. Pink for Jaelyn. Red and black for Lenora.

The family would appreciate any floral tributes be ordered through U Bloom.

Though our hearts are broken beyond words, we take comfort in knowing that Jaelyn and Lenora are forever together, forever loved, and forever in the presence of their Savior. Their laughter will echo in our hearts, their kindness will continue through those they inspired, and the love they shared will remain a light for all who knew them. Until we meet again, we will carry them with us in every song, every dance, every act of kindness, and every memory that reminds us how deeply they were loved.

"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." — Matthew 19:14