Charles Allen Manning

Charles Allen Manning, age 88, passed away on March 15, 2025, at the Inn at Summit Trail in Reynoldsburg,OH. He was born on October 10, 1936, in Coalinga, California, to Albert Harney Manning and Blanche Regina (Medo) Manning. Charles was a man of deep faith, joy, and generosity, who made an enduring impact on all who knew him.

Charles was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marlene Jeanette (Flory) Manning, who passed away on March 10, 2018. They were married on June 7, 1957, and spent nearly 60 years together. He is survived by their children: Sherry (Manning) Steffen (Matt), Sandra (Manning) Russell, Dale Manning (Jennifer), Marcie (Manning) Olson (Jeremiah), Ross Manning, and long-term foster son Adrian Hacker. He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Lisa Steffen (Juan), Mathias Steffen (Zoe), and Spencer Russell, Hilary Manning, Kimberly Whittington (Bryce), and Alison Manning, Hank Manning, Nicholas Winters, Carina Olson, Libby Olson, Jordan Olson and Micah Olson, and great-grandchildren: Vera DeJesus, Rivers Whittington, Elowyn Whittington, and Callen Dean.

Charles is also survived by his half-sisters Marlena Lyman, Mary Brown, and Maureen Hudgens. Although yet unconfirmed, Charles often convincingly shared his belief in a distant blood relationship to Peyton Manning. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Marge Cornell, his children David Manning (Karen), and newborn twins Lisa Manning and Laura Manning, and his grandson Zachary Yaz Pipke.

Charles had a lifelong passion for learning, earning multiple degrees from Yale, UCLA and California State University including his PhD in Post Secondary Education. While serving in the United States Air Force, Charles learned Chinese at Yale, sparking his lifelong interest in languages. If you ever dined with him at an ethnic restaurant, odds are good that he attempted to engage the staff in their native language. A published author and a dedicated educator, Charles spent over 20 years working for the private post-secondary department of education in California. A career highlight includes meeting Ronald Regan.

Beyond his career, Charles was passionate about his faith and his family. He was an active member of his local church, serving as a deacon, elder, and church planter. Charles was also deeply committed to charitable work, including sponsoring children and participating in mission trips to bring Bibles to China.

Charles’ personal hobbies included repairing cars, imagining new inventions, tennis, singing, and playing the harmonica and banjo. He was known for his joy and silliness, always ready to share a laugh or dance to his favorite tunes, especially the Beach Boys. Charles was also known for his ability to impersonate Donald Duck, which brought smiles (rolled eyes?) to those around him.

Some of Charles’ most cherished memories included his early years with his new bride in a small trailer in Roswell, New Mexico, shortly after his discharge from the Air Force, as well as

his travels with Marlene and their family. He also took great pride in writing a short book about the history of the Gold Rush town of Ophir, CA.

Known for his optimism, wisdom, humor, and kindness, he had an easygoing and generous personality. Charles was often described as an entertainer, singer, and dancer. His joy and positivity were contagious, especially in church, where he was known to encourage others with his heartfelt worship. His medical providers often noted that he was the most positive dementia patient they had worked with. At his nursing home, he became a local legend, known for volunteering to sing or dance alongside entertainers.

Memorial Service A celebration of Charles’ life will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Grace Fellowship Chapel Campus, located at 575 Diley Rd, Pickerington, OH 43147. A reception for immediate family will follow the service at the chapel. Flowers may be sent to the care of the church.

Charles will be remembered for his joy, his deep love for Jesus and family, his infectious smile, and his unwavering positivity. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him.