Mary Wells Manning

A proud graduate of Jeff Davis High School, Mary earned a place in school spirit as a majorette — a role that reflected her grace, dedication, and love of performance. Whatever she tried, she excelled. Mary’s talents and interests were wide-ranging: she enjoyed sewing, painting, and ceramics, and she embraced sports with equal enthusiasm. She was an accomplished tennis player who won several tournaments, including the 1995 National Championship Ladies League Tennis. She also enjoyed shooting skeet and golfing, achieving the remarkable feat of two hole-in-ones within a 13-month span.

Mary’s greatest achievement was her career in Real Estate, where her tenacious spirit and work ethic coupled with outgoing personality led to many friendships and a successful career.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Bobby and Robert Wilson; her sisters, Joyce Bokemeyer and Jane Rothe; her brother, Robert Wilson; and her husbands, Billy Ray Manning and William O. Wells, the father of her children. She is lovingly remembered and survived by her three children: Terri Berry, Wendy Henry, and William C. Wells; ten grandchildren: Ryan Berry, Anna Berry, Justin Berry, Clifton Berry, Hayden Henry, Savannah Henry, Noah Henry, Sarah Wells, Jordan Wells, and Jacob Wells; and five great grandchildren: Emerson Berry, Lincoln Berry, Breighlen Berry, Broden Berry, and Whitley Snyder.

Mary’s warmth, determination, and joyful spirit touched everyone who knew her. She lived a life marked by creativity, athleticism, and deep devotion to family. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to share in her life.

Family and friends will gather to share memories of this wonderful woman’s life from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday, December 11 at Waltrip Funeral Directors, 1415 Campbell Road in Houston, where funeral services will begin at 12:30 p.m. Friday, December 12, in the RL Waltrip Venue. Graveside services and interment will follow at Woodlawn Garden of Memories, 1101 Antoine Drive, also in Houston.