Joseph M. Mannix, Jr., 89, of Philadelphia and Lancaster, died on Thursday, September 4, 2008 at the Mennonite Nursing Home, Lancaster. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Dr. Joseph M. and Mary Doyle Mannix. He was the beloved husband of Mary, nee Malone and proud father of Norma Mannix, Mary Mannix and Christopher Meister, Stephen and Susan Bremer Mannix, and James and Debbie Simon Mannix. In addition, he was the loving grandfather of Matthew, Nina, and Michael.

Joe was a pioneering rail historian who was a founding and seventy-year member of the National Railway Historical Society. He had the vision and belief that railroads and their heritage were something to be passionately pursued and preserved. He was well known for his railroad artwork and many articles in the NRHS publications.

Joe graduated from Roman Catholic High School in 1937 and attended the Philadelphia College of Art. He served his country during World War II as a member of the United States Army and had an extensive career as an electronics designer and draftsman. He was an active member of the Cardinal Dougherty High School Fathers Association during his children's attendance from 1965 to 1978.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Saint William Church, 6234 Rising Sun Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19111 on Thursday, September 11, 2008. Friends will be received at 9:00 A.M. at the church, followed by Mass at 10:00 A.M. and interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Central Shine of the Miraculous Medal, 475 E. Chelten Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19144-5785 or to Saint William School Fund, 6234 Rising Sun Avenue, Philadelphia, PA  19111. Arrangements by the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home and Chapel, Lititz PA 560-5100. To send an online condolence, please visit www.snyderfuneralhome.com