I did not know until today, that Katharine had passed.  She was a volunteer for the Memphis Crisis Center for many years.  I know during her time with us, she had a real impact on so many lives.  She was truly a blessing to those that knew her and those that reached out to her on the crisis line.  She may be gone but she is not forgotten by all of those she touched with her compassion.   

I met Kathy on a photo shoot while still in college. We remained  friends for many years afterwards  but fell out of touch. I just now heard of her passing. She was a very sweet and thoughtful person. My condolences to her family. She will be greatly missed. 

Kathy and I shared a difficult journey together. We bonded. And in the end we overcame. I will miss her   She was my friend. 

Kathy was a very great, and personal, friend to my sister Anne-Clifton Bowling, and to my mother, Leona Dwyer.  I can recall many times in their conversations, how wonderful Kathy had been to help them in times of need. I deeply regret never having met her for any significant length of time. I do recall Anne-Clifton mentioning Kathy loved animals as much as I did, and that at some point we should compare the many creatures we had befriended.
To her family I say, I am deeply and terribly saddened this has happened, and wish there was some wording I could offer to be of use. Just know my thoughts and prayers are with you. 
Also, thank you for sharing her with my baby sister, Anne-Clifton, and my Mother. Truly one of the greatest and best friends they ever had.

I met Kathy in 1981 when she came to Memphis to model. We became instant friends she would live with us when she would come to Memphis she became a huge part of our family.  She was my maid of honor and sang in both my weddings which was so special. Our hearts are broken she left us too soon. Now we have a songbird angel in heaven looking over us. The family has asked me to post pictures from Kathy’s life I have older ones that I will find  and add those . My sincere condolences into the family.

I don’t know if I have any photos… our paths first crossed when I was a child visiting my mamaw Daisy Stigler in Drew every summer of my life. Daisy’s best friend was Kathy’s mamaw - Ann Manning. They assumed Kathy and I would click and we did. Kathy would tote me around Drew — to the pool, the Rebel Roost and down the road to Ruleville and Cleveland sometimes if we wanted to shop. She was so kind to me. Seemed to enjoy my company and would go out of her way to include me and introduce me to her friends.  She loved having me “talk” because I was a “Yankee” from Connecticut. I never felt left out . I remember her devotion to KISS. And her light heartedness, laugh and fun spirit. She was the most beautiful person I had ever been around and yet so unattached to her beauty, so much more concerned about being a good person . Never ever intimidating… not on purpose. She made me feel special . 

Our friendship lasted well through college. When I was at Samford freshman year I caught a ride to Tuscaloosa to meet up with Kathy who was there to see her then boyfriend Skip, playing for Ole Miss. we had a blast! 

I remember watching Miss America sure that she was going to win and she got 2nd runner up to Miss Utah. I was not happy. Felt like it was the “safe “ pick after a scandal the year before . She was gracious and took it all in stride. 

I am sad that she has left this world. I know she blessed it and will be sorely missed by her friends and family. A hole that will not be filled, just noticed. 

Rest In Peace my dear friend 

Suzanne Stigler Martin

Our prayers with Kathy’s family. We were friends and neighbors on Walnut Grove. She was a loving wife, mother and a gifted woman of faith with the voice of an angel. She will be remembered with much love. The Paratore Family, jack, rose n family and Sara keller and family

Sorry for your lost my prays are with you


I grew up in Drew about 13 years older than Kathy and was a babysitter for her when I was in junior high in the early 60’s.We reconnected many   years later down the road the year she was Miss Mississippi in 1984.I got to really know Kathy during times she would spend at our home when in Jackson.I like everyone was in awe of her beauty and talent but more than that, her easy and sweet nature to relate to others~There will never be another one quite like Kathy~rest in peaceful sleep sweet angel and friend~Sandra Sessums Crosthwait

I am so glad I got to grow up with Kathy in Drew. She was a dear childhood friend. We were in Girl Scouts together and boy the memories I have! I remember her love for the band KISS. She even painted their logo on her bedroom wall! Kathy, you were a true genuine beautiful person inside and out! I will cherish our friendship forever and you will always be our Miss America forever! Love and peace, Teresa Wilson Vanlandingham 

I am Richard Warren Manning and my oldest son is Richard Warren Manning Jr. I grew up in Roundaway, MS about 12 miles north of Indianola, MS. My dad was Marvin Richard (Dub) Manning and he grew up in Crystal Springs, MS. My daughter Mary Katherine Manning was Miss Northwest Community College in Senatobia, MS. Somewhere around 1998, before she competed in Miss Mississippi, I called Kathy to give my Katie some pointers in competing.  When she answered I told her who I was, there was complete silence on the phone, then doubt as to who I really was. Long story short, she invited my wife Carol Ann and Katie to Memphis. They left with advice and the gold rhinestone dress that Kathy had worn in MIss Mississippi as she stated people would recognize the dress. (By the way my Katie probably weighed 95 lbs and the dress weighed 30 lbs.)

I wish I could be there to honor Kathy’s memory.  Such a beautiful life.  I will pray for her mother, children and others close to her.  A life ended too soon.  Sending my love, Cissy Carter

So many great times growing up in the best small town in Mississippi… Drew!!! So many memories from our kindergarten class at First Baptist Church, to sleepovers, camping out in the backyard, first boyfriends, graduations, weddings, and on and on.  Nothing shaped our lives like Ye Old Cabinet Shoppe and hanging out at Marvin’s with Stan, Bob, Brenda, Allison and a host of others. It was the best !!!!  I treasure all the memories and the friendship we all shared. You are so missed my friend. 

Kathy went out of her way to be Miss Mississippi again for the day at Lydia’s 8th birthday party which was a Miss America theme! The Fisher Family loves KML! 

Kathy was a genuine, fun, loving, beautiful dear friend! For all that knew her, she will always hold a special place in our hearts! I love this picture of us from one of our high school class reunions! We stayed at my Mom’s in Ruleville that night just like old times- talking & staying up late! Have so many fond memories in high school & at Ole Miss & most were with Kathy! I was the “no, we shouldn’t do that” & she was the “yes, we should.” It was always entertaining! We shared many wonderful years- I was a bridesmaid in her wedding & Carla, her Mom & I went to Atlantic City to see Kathy in the Miss America Pageant! Was so proud of her!! She was always humble & kind to everyone! One time a bird hit my windshield & she insisted we stop & check on the bird on the side of the highway. She loved animals! The last time I talked to her, I could hear her pet bird in the background:) Kathy was one of a kind- love her so much & will miss her! She had a strong faith in God & know that she is a beautiful Angel singing in heaven! Much love to her Mom, children & family! Love, Barbie 

Kathy was a great friend of mine. I still have the pearls she gave me and was one of her friends when others were not. I was there for her after her divorce, decorated her home for Christmas, shopped with her in Nashville and even spent many nights staying up late and just talking in our pajamas! She was like a mom to me when I lived in Memphis. I never asked her for a dime, I respected our friendship and loved her for the women she was. She was kind, caring, considerate and smart. She could council, help others and give of herself. She spoke highly of her housekeeper and continued to give of herself even when she moved out to the farm with her animals! Kat was my friend, a mentor, a motivator and loyal person. She may not of been perfect, none of us are. So I encourage you all to share your memories. I will miss you Kat, your spirit lives on in my heart always. I will continue to think of you often and hear your voice. As she said to her daughter, I love you to the moon and back. Topher 

my sister outlaw there are now words, but only this:

you leave me with two things....

*your eternal graciousness you showed me from day 1

*your deep throaty laugh.

one I can try to emulate, the other is only yours.  

I love you angel.  

Kathy, girl, you left us way too soon. I have fond memories of swimming at the club pool, singing in chorus at NSA, etc. ... many moons ago. We lost touch, after I moved to the Carolinas & married. I hate that. But I know that you're in God's eternal embrace. You are at peace.  And, no doubt, you're singing. My prayers & deepest sympathy to your family. I'll catch you, on the other side!

Kathy was beautiful, of course, couldn’t miss that, but more than that she was kind, interested in others, fun and had a truly zany and unexpected sense of humor.  I remember a girls’ trip to the beach  when we were  laughing our heads off, telling stories, and she said “did u know I can shoot water out of my tear duct? “ That silenced us all..and we watched as she proceeded to shoot up a little fountain of tears…completely hilarious and completely undignified…we all roared! She was so much fun!
I remember also a moment in England when my husband and I heard ghosts…yes ghosts wailing and whispering in our bedroom where King Henry the 8th had once slept. It went on and on. We got so wigged out, finally  that we jumped up and ran out  to find Kathy and the rest of the friends’ group dying laughing at us!
She had planted a microphone under the bed and they took turns whispering in to the mic till they ran us out!
Unpretentious, a huge heart, and a voice I will always remember. 
I know she is singing again, in heaven with her Savior, who she loved so.
Laura Martin

Michael and I loved gathering at the farm for Thanksgiving when our three kids were growing up. The whole family would pile in each year.  I think the last year we went was 2012. My oldest graduated high school and headed to college and we started our own  holiday traditions since he was no longer living at home. But,  the farm and pictures of it always pull at me as though its a slice  of my own “home”. Its not the place, although the setting is so beautiful - i think its the having everyone you care about in one spot for just a few days. A sanctuary from the craziness of the world to enjoy each other if only  for a brief moment in time. I loved having it to look forward to  and the traditions that developed and kathy calling me at least ten times reminding me  to pick up the gingerbread men from Primo’s. All of it “home” to  me and  so special it resonates and stays with you and you FEEL something when you remember.. We made such precious memories!! Even though we did not go often,  the fun times of gathering as a large family are  indelibly ingrained in all of us.  Alfred Lord Tennyson said “I am a part of all that I have met”.  Kathy and her family and that peaceful place will always be a part of me….. a part of my kids…. A part of our family ! And i think that would make Kathy so happy.  When remembering her, i think of  the things that were so HER. Everyone that knew her has several things they smile about that her kooky self did. She was one of kind for sure. An interesting and entertaining soul always. There will be a space in our family that no one can fill,  until we gather on the  other side and  renew our Farm  Days.   For now …. She is Glorious!   she is free, she is whole , and she is singing!   💕🥰💕💚❤️💖🌟you were always such a star.  Will think of you when i look at them. 

Kathy and I were good friends while attending Ole Miss. The year she was Miss Mississippi, I was Mississippi’s Miss Hospitality and we had such great times promoting Mississippi together. She was a bridesmaid in my wedding and I sang in hers,  And while she was visiting me in the hospital in Memphis when I was in labor with our second child, things happened so quickly, she ended up being with my husband and me when I delivered our daughter, Abbie. It was a crazy and unexpected experience, but a bond for a lifetime. Life  may have a way of taking us in different directions, but memories with Kathy will always make me smile and warm my heart ! Oh, how she will be missed ❤️

Kathy was at Ole Miss when I was and she was just the most beautiful person ever. As beautiful inside as she was outside. She made #olemiss proud #Hottytoddy #ripkathy #HYDR Prayers for her family ❤️💙❤️💙

Kat and I met at Ole Miss, and immediately became friends! Many jeep rides were filled with laughter and fun around campus and Sardis lake! She was one of the most beautiful people inside and out that I ever met! Always a true friend with a positive outlook on life. We stayed in touch more as our kids got older and I cherished our conversations, which were always filled with laughter and reminiscing the good ole days! Kat you were one of a kind, it’s not goodbye, it’s see you later! 

She was at Ole Miss when I was and she was one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever seen.  I know that she was as beautiful inside as she was outside. Rest in peace and thank you for making Mississippi proud, Kathy Manning Loeb. ❤️❤️👑👑⭐️⭐️

Kathy was such a beautiful young lady in college. Ole Miss had a ton of beautiful women when I was there but she stood out amongst them all. I was saddened to hear of her passing. It’s a stark reminder that life is fragile and can end unexpectedly but I never expected to hear this sad news.  Heaven got another angel and the memories here from long ago will always be fond. So sorry for her loss to her extended family. 

I knew Kathy in junior high & high school.  Whenever  I think of her, I think of words to the old country song “she don’t know she’s beautiful”. She was relatable, kind and funny.  My favorite memories include watching her sail over the high jump bar and hearing her sing during the Miss America pageant. I pray for her family as they pass thru this time of grief. And I praise God that we know she is singing His praises in her heavenly home. 

Kathy was one of my  precious Delta Gammas at Ole Miss during my advisor years.  What a spitited and elegant young lady.   A special love to Crama who actually lived with us for a short time when her dorm caught fire.  I am saddened by Kathy's untimely death.   

Kathy and I were first cousins but grew up more like brother and sister. We had a magical childhood growing up in Drew, MS. We lived together for a time at Ole Miss and had many “adventures” through the years. Kathy was a “one in a million” beauty and she had a very kind soul. Kathy placed her faith firmly in Jesus Christ which absolutely ensures that I will see her again.

Kathy was genuine. A beautiful , elegant  southern belle.  We were all proud  of her.  I was so  humbled to do her wedding flowers and I still recall how simple and naturally elegant she wanted it. Just ivy,  greenery and white roses, she said .  No babies breath, no frills. Just  natural  and simply beautiful. Like Kathy . 


I met KML, for the first time in August 1985, when we were in Japan - I was on a USAF tour and she was touring/performing with the USO-Miss America show. It was a random encounter in a Japanese department store. My first view of her face that day literally took my breath away - for she truly was 'The most beautiful woman I had ever met in my life'! We started a friendship that day that never ended... and she is my love!  I miss you KML!!!

You once were...
You still are today...
You always will be...
The most beautiful woman I have ever met in my life!

DAP Loves KML!!!



To:  Bob, Win, Jackson, Hensley and the entire Manning-Loeb Family.

You have our Deepest heart-felt Sympathy for the lost of your love one.  Mrs Loeb will be greatly missed.  We are praying for your strength.

Charles & Sheridan Williams (Detroit, Michigan)

Kathy , my fondest memory of you was with the Drew Baptist youth group in Glorieta New Mexico Baptist youth retreat. We all became closer to God in that trip and I have never forgotten the feeling that we all shared as a group.  You are beautiful inside and out. Wear your new crown in heaven sweet Kathy. Heaven gained an angel. 

Kathy found out that she was one of my favorite Miss Mississippi’s when I was volunteering for one of our state’s local pageants. When we were at the state pageant in 1993 she was a featured entertainer and I got to meet her. I was awestruck and nervous and she made me feel so comfortable and we started a friendship. We stayed friends through occasional emails and through social media. She had a gift of making everyone feel special and like they were the only person in the room. I will treasure our friendship always and hold out pageant memories close to my heart always. I’m praying for her family and everyone who loved her. I know I’ll see her again one day. God bless y’all. 

Charles Oquin 
Hattiesburg, MS 

OBITUARY

Katharine Manning Loeb

May 28, 1962 – December 23, 2021

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