Walter Burrus Mann Sr.

Walter Burrus Mann Sr., 90, passed away surrounded by his family on February 18, 2016. Walter, or “Tommy” as family knew him, was born on August 20, 1925. He was raised in Lake Landing, N.C. in the county of Hyde by the late Thomas Jefferson Mann and Blanche Bonner Mann. He proudly served his country during WWII as an Army Private in the European Theater of Operations, notably in the Battle of the Bulge. Upon his honorable discharge, he attended Louisburg College.

Walter married Katherine Frances Holland of Cary, N.C. on April 5, 1947, and together they shared 68 wonderful years of marriage. Walter excelled in his work in the tire and trucking business in Wake County for six decades, and his most enjoyable years were spent working with his close friend, James A. Bailey. Walter has been a faithful and involved member of First United Methodist Church of Cary since 1948. He served as President of the Ellis Bland Sunday School Class and was often on the usher rotation.

He served his community by becoming the President of the Cary Lions Club, a member of Cary Lodge 198 32nd Degree Mason of the Raleigh-Scottish Rite, a member of the Amran Shriners, and Past President of the Wake County Shrine Club.

Walter is survived by his beloved wife Katherine H. Mann, son Walter B. Mann Jr. and wife Rhonda of Whispering Pines, and son Mark B. Mann and wife Susan of Cary. He’s also survived by his sister Ella B. Gunn of Shelby and sister-in-law Lela D. Mann of Raleigh.

He shared a special relationship with his sister-in-law Marie H. Seeger and husband Fred N. Seeger. Marie and Fred brightened his life on a regular basis with their loving company and her home cooking.

Walter, or “Papa,” was extremely proud of his four grandchildren; Thomas S. Mann, Rachel K. Mann, Stephen T. Mann, and Alyson N. Mann. He loved his extended family and his nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews were close to his heart.

Walter was preceded in death by his brothers Thurston, William, Norfleet, and Harvey Mann and two sisters Myra Jennette and Jane Ferguson. Walter was a southern gentleman and friend to many. Friends and family alike were entertained by his unique sense of humor and extensive collection of stories and songs.

He and Katherine enjoyed spending time with their family, boating, and both square and swing dancing. Walter also enjoyed deep-sea fishing, performing magic for his grandchildren, and skiing on the Pungo River in eastern North Carolina.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to caregivers Carrie and Kay Locklear and Keisha Young. These amazing women showed their kindness and strength of spirit as they cared for and loved Walter.

The family greatly appreciates Dr. Robert Resnik and his hugely supportive staff at Cary Adult Medical. They are also extremely grateful for Dr. Susan Glenn and her team’s compassionate care at Raleigh Neurology.

Memorial donations may be made to the NC Lions to aid the sight and hearing impaired. North Carolina Lions PO Box 39 Sherrills Ford, NC. 28673. http://nclionsinc.org/make-a-donation/

A celebration of Walter’s life will be held Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Brown-Wynne at 200 S.E. Maynard Road in Cary, NC. 27511.