Rilla Jane Manley

Rilla Ross Manley, this beautiful lady died February 5, 2025 at the age of 87. She was born in West Memphis, Arkansas and graduated from from Methodist Hospital School of Nursing. During her career, she practiced almost every aspect of nursing/nursing education from neonatal to geriatrics, from Memphis and many geographical areas. She took time off to raise a family.

This accomplished lady was equally comfortable in downtown Chicago as she was on her 500 acre Ozark property. She adored cats and had them for 57 years. She loved to read and tending to her flock of ducks which she had raised by incubating eggs. Her 67 year marriage to Emmett Manley, Jr., Ph.D. yielded two children, Emmett (Nancy) Manley, III, MD of Jefferson City, TN and Melinda Manley of Memphis. She had two granddaughters and three great-grandchildren. Granddaughters are Rebecca (Ian) Grenier and great-granddaughter Cici. Emily (James) Webb and great-grandchildren Chloe and Ethan.

Rilla was a gourmet chef who introduced many younger people to fine dining and wines.

A visitation/celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, we would appreciate your thoughts and prayers.