Dr. Peter George Manos

Our beloved Dr. Peter George Manos born in 1928 left us to be in Jesus’ arms Saturday, February 6, 2021. A lifetime resident of Greenville, SC, he was the eldest son of George Peter Manos and Bessie Melehes Manos of Sparta, Greece, who preceded him in death, as did his brother, Jimmy G. Manos.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 67 years, Anne Click Manos, his children G. Peter Manos (Linnie); Mark Stephen (predeceased by his wife, Lisa); Michael Click (Mitzi); Lee Ann Manos Vieira; Timothy Owen (Larri); his 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren; as well as his precious sister, Katherine Manos Leventis, along with many treasured nieces and nephews.

Pete was known to many people throughout South Carolina. As a graduate of Greenville High School, class of 1945, he enjoyed the many reunions with his fellow classmates over the years. He attended the Citadel in Charleston, SC, where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant. Pete transferred to Emory University in Atlanta, GA, to complete his undergraduate degree, while also becoming a Life Loyal member of Sigma Chi fraternity. After college, he enlisted and fought in the Korean War, serving as a medic in a MASH unit. Upon his return, Pete attended MUSC, earning his doctorate in general medicine and surgery, though decided to focus on family medicine, as it allowed him to become closer to his patients, developing a lifetime relationship with them.

Known as “Dr. Pete” to his patients, he holds the distinction of being the longest practicing physician in the history of the state of South Carolina, practicing over 58 years; and the lives he has touched are too numerous to count. He was one of the three founders of North Hills Medical Clinic. He was also honored by the state of South Carolina with House resolution H.4453, for his many years of faithful and tireless work in the field of medicine, his humanitarian service to his country, his state, and his community.

Ever a pillar of the Greenville community, he served as president of St. George Greek Orthodox Parish Council, and was a board member over the years for several organizations including, the Visitors of the Medical University of South Carolina, Greenville County Medical Society, South Carolina Medical Association, Southern Medical Association, American Academy of Family Practice, American Legion Post 3, Masonic Lodge #274, Scottish Rites, and Hejaz Shrine. Pete was faithful and tireless in his work, dedicating his life to serving others.

Always innovative and forward-thinking, he helped start the first health care plan in South Carolina (known formally as ‘Piedmont Health Care’) so his patients could receive affordable care from their doctors. He also co-developed Ramsgate Country Club, more recently known as Hejaz Country Club; the first country club in Greenville which did not discriminate against ethnic groups.

Just as Dr. Pete was a man of medicine, a patriarch to his family, a friend, and community leader, he was a man of travel and adventure. At the age of 91, he enjoyed flying in a WWII P-51 Mustang, since he had been a pilot from the age of 16. He never missed a chance to go deep-sea fishing, not only catching a 300lb. Marlin, but also often reeling in sailfish, weighing hundreds of pounds. One of his most memorable fishing expeditions was when he travelled to Alaska to catch salmon. Until his final day, he remained an active lover of learning, astounding us with his encyclopedia of knowledge, wisdom, and quick wit on any topic. Honor his memory and legacy, family, friends, and patients, by carrying on his personal creed, “Be kind to one another, and love each other.”

Visitation will be Wednesday, February 10, from 6-8pm at Mackey Mortuary, 311 Century Drive, Greenville, SC. Memorials may be made to AHEPA Building Fund ℅ St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Greenville, SC.