Garnett Herbert Manns was born on August 21, 1949 in Bassett, Virginia. He was one of six children born to the late Harry Douglas Manns and Katherine Stanley Manns. Garnett was educated in the Henry County Public School system and he was united in marriage with his devoted wife, Virginia Ann Hairston Manns on September 15, 1973. He worked at Bassett Chair, Fieldcrest, Fieldale-Collinsville Middle School, and Martinsville Middle School. He worked faithfully as a custodian for the Martinsville City School System for over 50 years.
He accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior and joined Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Bassett in 1977, where he served with continuous devotion until his passing. Over the years, he served as Sunday School Superintendent, as a member of the choir and guitar player, and on the Finance Committee.
Whether at work, at church, with friends, or in the community, Garnett always wore a smile, enjoying life at his own pace and never getting in any hurry. He always had time to talk, both in-person and on the phone. Garnett had a calm and friendly demeanor, never getting angry or having a worry. He loved going out to eat with his friends and relatives, especially at Clarence’s Steakhouse, El Parral, Biscuitville, Captain Tom’s, and Pacific Bay.
In addition to his parents, Garnett was preceded in death by two brothers, Harry “June” Manns, Jr. and J.B. “Pete” Manns, and two sisters, Virginia “Libo” Elizabeth Manns and Gabriella “Gaye” Manns Gilbert.
He is survived by his wife of over 52 years, Virginia Ann Hairston Manns, his daughter, Stephanie Hairston and son-in-law, Lloyd Hairston, all of Martinsville, Virginia; his sister, Dianne Mitchell of Axton, Virginia, his grandson, Malik Hairston and his fiancé, Raeven Hickman of Charlotte, North Carolina, a goddaughter, Dr. Susan Tinsley Gooden and her husband, Dr. Basil Gooden of Richmond, Virginia, along with several nieces and nephews, and many other relatives and friends.
God called Brother Garnett Manns to his heavenly home on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at the age of 76.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Collins Funeral Home, 30 Riverside Hwy, Bassett, VA with a funeral service to follow at 12:00 PM. With Rev. Taylor Tolliver officiating. Burial will follow in Carver Memorial Gardens.
Collins Funeral Home is respectfully serving the family at this time.
