After proudly serving in the U.S. Army for 21 years - including deployments in Korea and Vietnam — he retired in Houston, Texas, and went on to dedicate another two decades to Harris County Sheriff’s Office Radio Shop. Through both careers, he showed a deep commitment to service, discipline, and integrity.
He was a man who taught by doing, whether teaching his daughters how to water ski, swim and ride a motorcycle. His life was filled with adventure and discovery. And he shared that spirit with those around him. During his years in Europe with his family, he embraced each experience as an explorer rather than just a tourist, creating memories that shaped those he loved.
A true tinkerer, he found joy in “piddling” in the garage, fixing rather than replacing, and could make almost anything work again. His quiet persistence, ingenuity, and love of hands-on problem-solving defined his character and the way he lived his life.
He is survived by his children Debra Manning and Cynthia Larson. His grandchildren include Sabrina Bull (and wife Staci), James Slaton III (and wife Karen), Corey Davis (and wife Natalie), Chelsea White, Paige Baron, (and husband Randy). Great-grandchildren include Bradley Engel, Cailey Bull, Medina Slaton, Elias Slaton, Evelyn White, Ethan White, Zoe Baron, Gwen Baron, Bennett Davis, Parker Slaton, and Willow Slaton.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years Artie Faye Manning, father and mother, Horace Lee Manning and Louise (Lola) Manning, and sister Toni Ball.
