There is a quiet courage in living authentically, and few women embody that courage more gracefully than Roxanne L. Manzone. A proud Ocala resident for over four decades, Roxanne’s journey is one of inner strength, steady resilience, and heartfelt conviction. After retiring from a long career in law enforcement, she found a second calling as a Roadway Inspector with the Florida Department of Transportation, navigating not just roads but the winding path toward becoming her true self. She transitioned at the age of 57, embracing womanhood not as a beginning or an end, but as a lifelong truth finally set free. Her story, once featured in The New York Times series “Transgender Today,” is not one of regret but of empowerment, a reminder that it is never too late to live in harmony with your soul. Roxanne’s life is filled with the kind of passions that reveal a tender and authentic heart: from displaying her beloved car at local shows, to volunteering weekly at a soup kitchen, to custom-painting model trains with the kind of care that only someone deeply attentive to beauty and detail can offer.
Her sense of responsibility to the transgender community is deeply rooted in visibility and hope. Through her testimony at legislative hearings and the quiet bravery of everyday conversations, Roxanne has become a local advocate, not for attention or applause, but to show the world that transgender people are neighbors, colleagues, and kind souls who simply want to live and be loved. Though she has faced painful losses, especially within her family, Roxanne remains grounded by strong friendships, supportive co-workers, and her cherished “transition buddy,” Cindy. She believes that being transgender is not about passing, it’s about peace. In a world where trans women are often expected to prove their womanhood, Roxanne stands firmly in her jeans, unbothered by trends or expectations, offering instead a model of self-acceptance, grace, and quiet pride. It is my honor to share this conversation with a woman whose strength speaks softly but echoes deeply.
Monika: Today, I have the pleasure and honor of interviewing Roxanne L. Manzone, a Florida Department of Transportation Roadway Inspector from Ocala, Florida. Roxanne, welcome!
Roxanne: Hello Monika! Thank you so much. I'm truly excited to be part of this conversation and to share my story with you and your readers.
Monika: Could you introduce yourself to our readers and share a bit about your background and passions?
Roxanne: I retired from law enforcement here in Ocala, FL, and have lived here for over 40 years. I grew up in New York. I’m a “car girl” and enjoy displaying my car at shows. I volunteer at a local soup kitchen once a week. I’m also a model train enthusiast and custom paint scale model trains. It keeps me creative and connected to a community of fellow hobbyists.
Monika: You were featured in The New York Times series “Transgender Today.” What inspired you to share your story publicly?
Roxanne: My attitude is that there is so little information about the transgender community, we are all responsible for being visible in a positive way. Many people have never met a transgender person, and I want the people who meet me to walk away with a positive impression. I wanted people to see that we are everyday people too. It felt like a small but meaningful way to help others understand us better.
Monika: You began your transition in your late 50s. Looking back, do you have any regrets about transitioning later in life?
Roxanne: No regrets. I believe in “things happen for a reason,” so we all transition at different times in our lives. I was ready at 57. I finally came to accept who I was a few years prior. I gave myself three years to complete my transition and stuck to it. I finally transitioned at work on 06/15/2015. That date will always be one of the most empowering moments of my life.
Monika: During your transition, were there any transgender role models or public figures who guided or inspired you?
Roxanne: No, not really. I think what motivated me were girlfriends I met in the LGBTQ community. Seeing their changes and having numerous discussions about hormones and surgery helped me. I came to the realization, “why not me,” to be my authentic self. It was their courage and honesty that gave me the push I needed.
Monika: Are there any transgender women you admire today, either personally or publicly?
Roxanne: My close girlfriend, Cindy. We have paralleled each other in our journey since we first met back in our early cross-dressing days. We both refer to each other as “transition buddies.” We talk often and have been each other’s support system over the years. Her loyalty and understanding have meant the world to me.
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| I won the chili cook-off at work in 2016. |
Monika: The journey to becoming our true selves often comes with deep personal costs. Many transgender women face heartbreaking losses, of family, friendships, careers, and social acceptance. Did you experience such losses after coming out?
Roxanne: Yes, I lost contact with my two adult daughters, grandchildren, my sister, and ex-wife. Am I sad? Somewhat. In retrospect, I know I could have done a better job at explaining my transition to my daughters, but at the time of my divorce, I didn’t have a lot of knowledge about what I was going through. They saw my decision as selfish, putting myself ahead of them and my ex. It’s a pain I still carry, but I’ve learned to be gentle with myself over time.
Monika: That kind of distance from family must have been incredibly painful. What helped you stay grounded during such a difficult time?
Roxanne: I felt I was at a point of “Why should I be grumpy just to keep three other people happy?” The pressure to be your authentic self never went away; in fact, it increased as I got older. Besides, they are missing out on a much nicer, better person. I am blessed with retired friends, Model Train club members, and co-workers who knew me prior to my transition and support me. Their presence reminds me that chosen family can be just as meaningful.
Monika: In recent years, visibility and representation of transgender women have grown across many fields, from entertainment and fashion to politics, science, and business. Laverne Cox famously said, “Trans is beautiful,” and more young trans women are stepping into the spotlight than ever before. How do you view the current landscape for transgender women? Are we witnessing meaningful progress, or are we still just scratching the surface?
Roxanne: I think we in the community are beginning to be more visible than ever, and more are “coming out of the closet.” Each one of us who is out is knocking down misconceptions and misinformation about what a trans person is. I think we just want people to understand we are not “freaks,” just regular people who want to be happy, live their lives, and contribute to society. I firmly believe the people I meet have no issues with me being transgender. I feel American society is becoming more accepting. I’m hopeful that with continued education and advocacy, we’ll see even greater progress.
Monika: Still, there’s a painful contrast between growing visibility and ongoing violence and discrimination. The so-called “restroom wars” continue, and transgender women, particularly women of color, face a frightening level of danger. What are your thoughts on these darker aspects of our reality?
Roxanne: Here in the United States, we are the target of the conservative religious right. With the legalization of same-sex marriage in the USA, we are now their scapegoats. It is especially dangerous for transgender women of color, many have been murdered. And with the current president and his administration, they are rolling back protections for our community. We cannot look to the present federal government for protection; it will have to come through the judicial system. It’s heartbreaking, but we must keep fighting for justice and safety for all members of our community.
Monika: The transgender movement is often grouped under the broader LGBTQ+ umbrella, yet our struggles, while overlapping, are also uniquely complex. Do you think the transgender community is able to advocate effectively for its own needs within this larger coalition?
Roxanne: Given the present leadership in Washington, D.C., they are trying to erase LGBTQ people from society. All references and programs designed to assist LGBTQ Americans on a federal level have been removed or “left to the states.” It feels like a systematic effort to silence and marginalize us. Despite this, I believe our community is resilient and continues to raise its voice.
Monika: In your view, how united is the LGBTQ+ community when it comes to supporting transgender rights specifically? Do you feel there’s a shared sense of purpose?
Roxanne: The current administration is actively hostile toward the LGBTQ community, based on their comments, actions, appointments, and open support of known anti-LGBTQ organizations. There have been comments and articles suggesting that transgender issues have nothing to do with gay issues, but that seems to come from a very small group. All of us under the LGBTQ banner are under attack from hateful, extreme right-wing politicians. I think this shared adversity actually strengthens our bond and unites us in defense of one another.
Monika: How do you feel about the way transgender people are represented in the media, whether in news stories, films, or literature?
Roxanne: There have been several positive depictions of transgender Americans, especially on cable television. However, Hollywood still has a long way to go in recognizing trans actors and giving them roles that are authentic. It would be refreshing to see more stories told by us and for us.
Monika: Have you been involved in any advocacy or political efforts for transgender rights? And do you believe trans women can help shape policy and lead change?
Roxanne: I did testify in 2015 to a subcommittee concerning a “bathroom bill” in the Florida Legislature, and I also spoke against an anti-transgender policy at a local school board hearing. Again, the more visible we become, especially in politics, the more we help push the movement forward. Our voices matter, and change starts when we show up and speak out.
Monika: Do you think we’ll live to see a transgender woman become President of the United States, or perhaps the First Lady?
Roxanne: I seriously doubt that. Still, I believe we will continue to break barriers in politics and public life, even if the presidency takes more time.
Monika: Let’s talk fashion, do you enjoy it? What styles or pieces make you feel the most like yourself? Any favorite brands or go-to colors?
Roxanne: Typically, I dress casually, you’ll always find me in jeans. I haven’t worn a dress in a long time. Comfort is key for me, and my wardrobe reflects my laid-back lifestyle.
Monika: Some say that cisgender women gained freedom with the invention of birth control, while transgender women have found a different kind of liberation through cosmetic surgery and gender-affirming procedures. Do you agree that “passing” still defines too much of our identity?
Roxanne: “Passing” is something that gets me mad. Why do we have that pressure? As long as we are happy with ourselves, that’s all that counts in my opinion. Unfortunately, most health insurance policies exclude anything related to gender transition, so many trans people are left without access to the care they need, and that’s incredibly unjust.
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| At a local car show. |
Monika: Transgender beauty pageants are becoming more visible around the world, with some even being broadcast internationally. What’s your take on this growing trend?
Roxanne: I don’t really care. To each their own, but it’s just not something I personally find meaningful or engaging.
Monika: Many transgender women choose to write memoirs, documenting their journeys and struggles. Have you ever considered telling your story in book form?
Roxanne: No, not really. I did have a story in our local newspaper featuring myself and three other local transgender people. I’ve been in this town for 40 years and wanted my story out, so I was thrilled when the reporter contacted me. It meant a lot to have my truth shared within my own community.
Monika: Love is such an important part of many people’s lives. How has your relationship with love evolved, especially since your transition?
Roxanne: Since my divorce, I have found I am content being single, and I’m not actively looking for a relationship. We’ll see what the future holds. For now, I value my independence and peace of mind.
Monika: Are there any personal or professional projects you're currently working on or excited about?
Roxanne: None. I’m just enjoying my retirement, my hobbies, and time with friends right now. Sometimes, the best project is learning to relax and appreciate the moment.
Monika: What advice would you give to transgender women currently dealing with gender dysphoria?
Roxanne: Seek out others in our community, with the internet, you can find many resources. It is important to know that you are not alone. Seek professional counseling; I did that, and it was one of the best things I’ve ever done. Find and make friends with someone in your same situation, a close friend is invaluable. You don’t have to walk this path alone; community support can be life-changing.
Monika: My pen friend Gina Grahame once wrote to me that our dreams shouldn’t end on an operating table, that’s where they begin. Do you agree that we should dream beyond transition?
Roxanne: We are all different, but we have to face the reality of what we can and cannot do. Some are fortunate to have the financial resources to physically transition; many do not. And surgery isn’t the answer for all transgender people. We all have to be happy in our skin (though it’s the wrong body); ultimately, if you are happy in your heart and soul, your beauty will shine. Life doesn’t stop with transition, it starts when you truly embrace yourself.
Monika: Roxanne, thank you so much for sharing your story and your wisdom with me today!
All the photos: courtesy of Roxanne Manzone.
© 2017 - Monika Kowalska
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