James P. Manlove-Mcknight

On Friday, April 23rd, 2021, our beloved James Phillip Manlove-McKnight affectionately known as "Jader" departed this life. Jader was loved by his family and friends and anyone who came across this gentle giant would remember his big smile. Jader was a true Gemini and Protector to all whom he encountered.

James Phillip Manlove-McKnight was born on May 31st, 1989 in Wilmington, Delaware to Carolyn L. McKnight and the late Wayne P. Manlove. At 3 days old, he was given the nickname "Jader", by his loving cousin, Crystal and Butter. He attended the Wilmington Public Schools and in June 2007, Jader graduated from McKean High School, where he excelled at basketball. At the age of 10 years old, Jader started playing basketball with the "Stormin Norman Classic Basketball League". In 2002, he won the basketball championship at the University of Delaware. In 2006, he won "MVP" with the Delaware Scholastic Play by Play Classic Tournament and years later continued to love and play the game of basketball at the local city parks. Jader was an avid sports fan and loved the game of basketball and football. Jader was a die hard Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Cowboys fan.

In 2010, Jader took his Shahadah and embarked on a path of change. In 2016, Jader became an entrepreneur and opened his first restaurant, "Ummi's" with his cousin Halim. Jader later became employed with the Longshoreman Hall ILA.

Jader was looking forward to becoming a first time father, due in August. In his spare time, he enjoyed spending quality time with family and friends.

Jader was preceded in death by his father, Wayne P. Manlove, his maternal grandparents, Helen Brown-McKnight and Walter Graham, Paternal grandfather, Clarkson Manlove and his uncle James "Boo" McKnight whom he was named after. Jader was also preceded in death with his special childhood friend, Jermaine "O-Dog", whom he traveled with and played basketball together.

Jader is survived by his loving mother, Carolyn L. McKnight, four sisters; Tomeka, Shalonda, Sherita, and Manlove; six brothers, Shawn, John, Kenneth, Duane, Wayne, Derrell, a devoted nephew whom was like his brother, Daion and a loving god-brother, Marquis and godsister, Asia. He truly adored his nieces, Ala'Zje, And'Zje, Albany, and Gia. He shared a very special bond with his nephews, Messiah and Gavin.

Jader leaves many memories with his extended family whom loved him dearly, special companion and mother of his son, Nikki, her mother Lisa, her daughters, Dallis, Jadah, and McKenzi.

Jader is survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, special friends and the Concord Ave Movement (C.A.M.) and the 30th Street crew. Previous Events


Viewing


APR 26. 2:15 PM - 2:45 PM (ET)

House of Wright Mortuary - Wilmington
208 East 35th Street
Wilmington, DE 19802

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Graveside Service


APR 26 (ET)

Silverbrook Cemetery
3300 Lancaster Ave
Wilmington, DE 19805

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