Manuel Lawrence Alves III, affectionately known to family and friends as Bud, entered the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Heart to Heart Hospice House in Houston, Texas, at the age of 70.

Bud was born on September 9, 1955. He dedicated his working life to the Teamsters Union, where he built a reputation for hard work, integrity, and dependability. Over the course of his career, he drove commercial vehicles and specialized in changing tires ranging from everyday passenger vehicles to the enormous equipment used in rock mining operations. After a lifetime of faithful work, he retired on February 26, 2016.

While Bud worked with his hands for a living, his greatest passion was found in his faith and his family. He loved the Lord Jesus Christ wholeheartedly, and together with his beloved wife, Cheryl, made the courageous decision years ago to follow Christ wholeheartedly. In doing so, they forever changed the trajectory of their family, establishing a legacy of faith that continues through their children, grandchildren, and generations to come. Their marriage reflected God's faithfulness as they celebrated 50 years of marriage on July 3, 2026.

Bud served faithfully in his local church, where he warmly greeted people as they entered each week. His welcoming smile, kind spirit, and genuine joy made others feel seen and loved. Those who knew him will remember that he always seemed to be smiling. His joy was authentic, his kindness was constant, and he had a unique way of making people feel at ease.

He also had an incredible love for automobiles. Bud could completely disassemble and rebuild a car, often bringing what seemed impossible back to life. Family members will fondly remember that after every project, there always seemed to be a handful of leftover bolts, which Bud would confidently grin and call "extras."

Beyond his work and hobbies, Bud treasured time with Cheryl. Together they traveled the world, creating countless memories while enjoying life's adventures side by side. Of all the places they visited, however, the greatest investment they ever made was in their family.

Bud is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Cheryl Lynn Alves; his daughter, Nicole Ann Alves; his son, Manuel Lawrence Alves IV ("Lance") and his wife, Heather Alves; his son, Jason Alves and his wife, Amy Alves; and his thirteen beloved grandchildren: Haley, Caleb, Norah, Iyla, Kealoha, Mikaela, Malachi, Heaven, Raegan, Irelynn, Zane, Eden, and Nolan. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his love, encouragement, and unwavering faith.

He was preceded in death by his father, Manuel Lawrence Alves II; his mother, Emily Alves; his sister, Shelly Boley; and his brother-in-law, Bruce Paden.

Bud's life was a testimony to quiet faithfulness. He worked hard, loved deeply, laughed often, and pointed those around him toward Christ—not only through his words, but through the joy and kindness with which he lived each day.

Though our hearts grieve his absence, we rejoice in the assurance that because of his faith in Jesus Christ, Bud has heard the words every believer longs to hear: "Well done, good and faithful servant." His legacy will continue to be seen in every generation of his family whose lives were forever changed because he chose to follow the Lord.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7

Services are privately held with the family.