Obituary for Larry F. Manning

Larry F. Manning

January 26, 1937 – May 29, 2022

Heaven has gained a new Angel! So if you find yourself needing a friend to talk to, or someone to help you trade or make a deal, a little off color joke to make you smile, can’t quite figure out how to fix something or are just in the mood to sing or dance with a partner to a little music by George Jones….don’t be surprised if your Angel might be our dad Larry in his new beautiful strong heavenly body ready to assist…especially if you are a pretty lady!

Larry was the first person in his family to ever own a car. He was very proud of that accomplishment. At 17, he traveled to join the Navy and find his birth father in NJ. He not only found his father but a whole other family. They fell in love with him! (And he instantly loved them!). Larry was a true “Jack of all trades” as anything that needed to be done he would tackle the project and figure out how to do it. He was a car salesman for many years and many times the top salesman of the month. His secret was to listen to the buyer, understand what they wanted and then also what they needed – And help them find a car that would balance both. That way he helped the customer and they would remember him the next time they needed a car.

Larry was married twice. He worked hard to take care of both. His first wife, Jo Jean Coker, of 19 years he shared three children with her. He also cherished his second wife, Betty Reynolds Manning of 39 years and sorely missed her since her passing in 2017. He looked forward to being with her again.

Larry loved to play golf, dance, and listen to the news. Larry never met a stranger. All who met him felt instantly accepted and enjoyed his quick wit and charm.

Larry was born in Wytheville, Virginia on January 26, 1937 and is the son of, Ruth Thelma Brackens and Greeley Thornton Manning. Larry is survived by his children: Ramona Ruth (Manning) Longbottom and husband Douglas Longbottom, Annette Elizabeth Manning and beloved friend Scott Branks, and Larry F. Manning II; grandchildren, Samantha Ruth Longbottom, Connor Douglas Longbottom, Felicity Jean Arthur and husband David; sisters, Peggy Manning Phillips of North Carolina, Lisa Manning Goss of Kentucky, Linda Manning McCann of Virginia, and Liona Manning Gilbert of New Jersey; brother, Craig Manning of New Jersey. Preceded in death by brother, Larie Manning of New Jersey.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery.