Mr. Carlton Emanuel ("Mann") Bernard

Reflections of Mann’s Drumbeat

With a rhythm in his heart and a beat in his soul, the world will fondly remember Carlton Emanuel Bernard, or as most knew him, "Mann". Born to Shantae Bernard-Winston and Carl Emanuel Payne in the blues city of St. Louis, MO on January 29, 1991, Mann embraced the rhythm of life and danced to his own beat until his last day on August 20, 2023.

Carlton was a man who marched to the beat of his own drum, and quite literally at that. In grade school, he and his cousin’s interest in the dance team, was a ploy to meet girls.  He joined the band at Carr Lane and his true artistry was discovered, nurtured, and flourished. Mann graduated from Central Performing Arts High School, where he played in the drumline and later joined the Show Me Sounds Drumline under the guidance of Terry Artis. His talent was undeniable, and he eventually became the captain of his drumline. His drumsticks were like an extension of his soul, creating music that moved people and left them in awe of his talent.

His faith was as strong as his rhythm. Reared in the church, he accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized in Jesus' name at True Pentecostal Church by Elder Derrick Triplett, and later joined the Restoration Faith Assembly, also with Elder Derrick Triplett. His faith was his compass, guiding him through life's ups and downs with grace and determination.

Mann was not just about the beat; he was about the beat of life. He volunteered at the St. Louis Independent Center, where he helped others with life skills, encouraging them to pursue college and maintain independence. His heart was as big as his drum set, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need, giving his last if needed .

Creativity was his middle name, intelligence his game, and spirited was his claim to fame. Mannhad a knack for drawing, and his sketches were as lively as his drum beats. He loved rapping, making music and beats, and of course, playing the drums. His music was his language, and he communicated his passion, joy, and zest for life through his art.

Carlton lived life with a sense of humor that was infectious.  He would often say and do things that would have you laughing days later! Mann certainly kept his spark alive, and his laughter was music to everyone's ears.

Carlton’s memories will be forever cherished by his loving mother, Shantae Bernard- (Erick) Winston; his father, Carl Payne; grandmother, Sharon Bernard; grandfather, Raymond (Angie) Turner; sisters, Auvion (Danny) Coleman, Carlissa Payne, and Erica Payne; brothers, Simon Payne and Kemeric Winston; a special friend, Angelika Mueller; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. 

We remember Carlton not with sorrow, but with joy. His life was a symphony, a beautiful composition of faith, talent, and love. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his music will continue to beat in our hearts. So, let's keep the drum rolling for Carlton, a man who truly knew how to march to the beat of his own drum.

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