Willie Leon Manley

Willie Leon Manley "Coach", 83, longtime resident of Austin, passed away at his home on March 13, 2010, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was born and raised in Hollis, Oklahoma to Willie Lee and Virginia Overton Manley. Known by Leon, his football career started in the 7th grade. During his junior year of high school, his team went undefeated with his lifelong friend and teammate Darrell Royal. After high school, Leon proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy.

In 1946, Leon married the love of his life, Johnnie Boggs Manley. They shared over 62 beautiful years together, until her death in 2008.

Leon played football alongside Darrell at the University of Oklahoma for several successful seasons until he was drafted for the Green Bay Packers. After an injury, he continued on with his education, achieving his master's degree, while also coaching and continuing to play alongside, Darrell. He admirably achieved great success at home with his family as well, raising his sons as a wonderful husband. In 1966, after several years of coaching at Northeast Louisiana and Colgate University, Leon joined Darrell at the University of Texas. During his tenure, the Longhorns won two National Championships and six straight Southwest Conference Championships. He continued his career as a Coach and Mentor until 1985. He retired as Supervisor of the Athletic Facilities in 1992. Leon was an active member of Austin Baptist Church, always enjoying time with his church family and rejoicing the Lord.

Leon was a remarkable coach and guide to many generations of football players and students. His compassion and commitment to his players will never be forgotten. But most of all, his duty as husband, father, grandfather, great- grandfather and friend is the example he leaves for all who were blessed to be apart of his legacy. Leon was a kind and generous man who will forever be missed. Leon is survived by his sons: Stan Manley and wife, Rosie; Mark Manley; three grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and countless special loved ones and friends.

The family will receive guests at the funeral home from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 16, 2010. A memorial service will be held in Coach Leon's honor, at Austin Baptist Church, Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. To share memories about Coach Leon Manley, please visit www.cookwaldencapitalparks.com. Arrangements were made under the direction of Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home and Cemetery in Pflugerville, Texas.