Johnny Lee Manning Sr.

to his family and friends and a pillar of strength and compassion, passed

away on May 6th, 2024.

Johnny was born on August 1, 1945, in Richards, TX, to Isiah Manning, Sr.

and Christine McGill Manning, the eighth child among ten siblings. He spent

his formative years in Richards and attended school there, leaving behind

countless cherished memories and stories of his youth.

An astute entrepreneur, Johnny ventured into several business endeavors

throughout his life, but it was alongside his beloved wife, Hilda (“Hilla” as only

he could say), that he found his greatest success. Manning’s Auto Repair, a

neighborhood institution, thrived under his guidance for 35 years, becoming

synonymous with Johnny Manning himself. Whether he was at The Shop,

overseeing operations, tending to the stables, or seated at his desk, Johnny

was always ready to lend a helping hand. Though he shied away from the

label of philanthropist, his actions spoke volumes, as he never hesitated

to assist those in need.

Johnny shared 48 beautiful years of marriage with Hilda, and together they

raised five children: Johnny Manning, Jr. (Ericka), Elvis Brock (Franchell),

Alvin Hubert Jr. (Kathy), Helen Gibson Manning (Duke), and Charles Wayne

Manning (Teresa). His legacy further extends to his beloved grandchildren:

Micah, Jarron, Corey (Ly), Brittany, Trey, Dominique, Denzel, and Alvin Hubert III,

as well as his great-grandchildren, Bricen, Mackenzie, and Shai. Left to cherish

his memories are his brothers Herbert-Ray Manning and Luther Manning.

In his later years, Johnny found solace and purpose as a deacon at his

childhood church, First Baptist Church of Richards. He was preceded in

death by his parents, seven siblings: Ellen Joyce Manning, Ola Mae

Manning-Bay, Amelia Manning-Brown, Agnes Marie Manning, Howard Randle

Manning, Mary Manning-Greene, and Isiah Manning, Jr., as well as his daughter,

Helen Marie Manning-Gibson. Johnny leaves behind a legacy of love and

laughter, fondly remembered by an abundance of nieces, nephews, great and

great-great nieces and nephews, and a multitude of friends.

Though Johnny may no longer be with us, but the memories he created

and the laughter he shared, will echo in our hearts forever.

Rest in peace, dear Johnny.