William August Manies III

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on August 31, 1943, to William A. Manies, Jr. and Ruth Elizabeth Carlyle (née Weaver), Bill grew up in Springfield, Missouri, alongside his beloved brother and lifelong best friend, David Michael (Mike) Manies. His childhood was filled with shenanigans and joyful adventures with his brother, cousins, and friends.

In 1960, while attending Central High School, Bill met Sherran (Sherry) Martin. Their courtship blossomed over drive-in dates, hi-boys, and Cokes, leading to their marriage on June 20, 1964.

Bill proudly served in the United States Army with the Army Security Agency as a Morse Code Intercept Operator during the Vietnam War, stationed in Chitose, Japan. His service was a source of deep pride and inspired his lifelong interest in technology. After returning home, Bill earned his bachelor’s degree from Avila College and enjoyed a long career in computer science.

Together, Bill and Sherry welcomed their children, Gregory Scott and Melissa Renee, in 1970 and 1975. The family cherished their years in Hartsburg, Missouri, embracing rural life with gardening, farm animals, blackberry briars, walnut hulling, endless games of catch, mowing, and the constant baying of the family beagles. Bill was a lifelong learner with endless curiosity on all things- including, technology, cars, and even cabin building. He enjoyed how-to videos, spirited political debates, golfing with his brother, and relaxing naps on the screened-in porch.

Bill will be remembered for thrifty family road trips, his mastery of peanut brittle and cheese fondue, and his skillful (and ruthless) Mexican Train domino hands.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, including his beloved Granny (Bessie Floyd Weaver), who helped raise him. Bill is survived by his wife, Sherry; children, Scott (Jennifer) and Melissa (John) Corwin; grandchildren, Olivia Manies, Jackson Corwin, and Paige Corwin; his brother and best friend, Mike (Sharon) Manies, and sister-in-law, Debi Martin, as well extended family and friends whom he loved dearly.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date. For those wishing to honor his memory, donations may be made to either the American Cancer Society or the Church of the Resurrection. Bill hated cancer and was passionate about supporting research for a cure, and as a 30-year member of the Church, he was energized by their innovative approach to expanding God’s reach through sharing resources which enable other churches to thrive.

Bill’s family is deeply grateful for the continuous love and support of family, friends, and neighbors—especially the advocacy and companionship of Jill Jones, the steadfast love of Bill and Cyndi Seifert, and the thoughtful care provided by his favorite hospice nurse, Brooke. The White and VanLeeuwen families truly exemplified “love thy neighbor,” and their kindness will always be remembered.

A Memorial Service has been scheduled for Saturday, January 31st, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Church of the Resurrection Wesley Chapel, 13720 Roe Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66224.