Manuel Franca, 69, of Palm Coast, FL and formerly of Fall River, passed away peacefully on Monday, surrounded by his family and friends, following a courageous battle with lung cancer. Husband of Gracinda (Almeida) Franca, with whom he shared 49 years of marriage. Born in Lisbon, Portugal, son of the late Manuel Luis & Alzira (Oliveira) Franca. Although inducted into the Lowell, MA Soccer Hall of Fame for his achievements with the Portuguese-American Club in New Bedford and Academica Club of Fall River, Manny's favorite club remained Benfica. Survivors include a son, Paulo Franca (wife – Deborah) of Sanford, FL; daughters, Camila Moniz (husband - Herbie) and Ana Pereira (husband – Joe) both of Fall River; 2 brothers and 3 sisters in Lisbon, Portugal; grandchildren, Corey, Cassandra, Jessica, Zachary, Paulo and Kaleb; and several nieces and nephews. His Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, March 15, in St. Anthony of Padua Church. He was laid to rest at St. Patrick Cemetery.