Dr. Hermit Raby "Ray" Manning, Jr.

Olive Branch - DR. HERMIT RABY “Ray” MANNING, JR., age 89, passed away at his home in Olive Branch, MS on July 5, 2014 surrounded by his family, who adored him. He was born on April 11, 1925 in Mickey, Floyd County, TX to Hermit Raby Manning, Sr. and Ruth Mae Streater Manning. He was the last surviving sibling of his two brothers and sisters. Ray was raised on a ranch in Texas until he joined the Navy and was briefly stationed at Millington Naval Airbase. While in Memphis, he met the love of his life, Rose Marie Weber. After returning from his tour in the South Pacific during WWII, Rose Marie and he were married on January 22, 1945. They celebrated their wedding day with dining and dancing at the Peabody Skyway Room, where they later spent many happy evenings listening to “Big Band Music” with friends and family. After WWII, Ray returned home and attended Memphis State College (U of M) and then completed his studies at the University of Tennesse College of Dentistry, where he earned a Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 1953, while in dental school, he was a member of Xi Psi Phi Fraternity. During the Korean War, Ray was again called to serve his country. He held the rank of Captain in the Army Dental Corps and was stationed along with his wife in Camp Polk, Louisiana. In 1954, Ray and Rose Marie returned to Memphis and he partnered with his father-in-law, Dr. Asbury Anton Weber in his dental practice. Dr. Manning was dedicated to the professions of dentistry, and in his long career, he cared for several generations of families who became longtime and loyal patients. Extremely active as a delegate in the American Dental Association for many years, he served as President of the Memphis Dental Association in 1977. In 1983, Ray was honored with induction into the American Academy of Dentist, then in 1984, he served as President of the Tennessee Dental Association. While serving as the State President, he hosted the State Dental Convention at the Peabody Hotel, once again making a night of wonderful memories as everyone dined and danced at the President’s Ball held in the Skyway room. After 40 years of caring for his patients, he retired and turned his practice over to his son, Dr. Weber Manning. Dr. Manning was the 7th generation of the Manning family to be a 32nd degree Master Mason of the Scottish Rite and a Shriner for more than 50 years. An avid hunter and fisherman, Ray loved spending time outdoors. He shared these skills with younger family generations and spent many happy hours making memories that they will cherish. He also enjoyed planting and caring for a large garden each year and would share the fruits of his labor with family and friends. Ray was a kind, loving and generous man who touched many people’s lives and who was loved and respected by all that knew him. He is survived by his loving wife, Rose Marie Weber Manning; daughter, Kathryn Manning; son, Dr., Weber W. Manning (Robin); daughter, Rose Marie Lawson (Wes); daughter, Ann Tucker (Don); as well as eight grandchildren: Jeanne Marie Fenster (Andy), Kathryn Rea, Trey Lawson, Phillip Lawson, Lauren Manning, Bryan Manning, Ann Marie Tucker, John Tucker, and four great-grandchildren. Family will receive friends July 8 at Collierville Funeral Home. Services will be July 9 at 12 p.m., with interment to follow at Elmwood Cemetery. Collierville Funeral Home (901)853-2628