Billy Henry Manning
Fayetteville—SFC Billy H. Manning was born in Greenville, Texas September 23, 1929 to the late Kate Manning Johnson and Raymond Manning. He departed this life in his home on Monday June 17, 2019. Billy was preceded in death by his sister Gladys Manning, wife Willie Hodges Manning, and sons John Selester Manning, Raymond Manning and Sammie Morrison.
Billy completed his education in Topeka, Kansas after his family relocated there. He enlisted in the US Air Force upon leaving school. Upon discharge he then enlisted into the US Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. Known as a "good" soldier, Billy's military career spanned nearly 23 years to include a tour in Vietnam. Upon retirement he and his family lived in Spring Lake where he immediately became an integral part of the community. He trained as an HVAC technician and became a volunteer fireman for the town and later joining the police force as an officer. He went on to become the first Black Chief of Police, was elected to the Board of Alderman and as the first Black mayor. Upon leaving the political arena he worked as a deputy for the Cumberland County Sheriffs Department.
Billy served on numerous boards in the community over the years and received a wide array of awards and decorations. He was a member of the VFW, "Triple Nickle", the Masons(Eureka Lodge #3 F&M PHA), and the Shriners(Kindah Temple#62 A.E.M.O.N.M.S.PHA).
By his presence Billy commanded respect and loyalty. He leaves a legacy of love and caring to his loved ones: wife Virginia Manning; daughters Rita Bell(Wilbur), CMS Tijuana Hannibal; brother Donald Johnson(Mercedes); eight grandchildren; goddaughter Karla Jones; two special daughters Nettie Hood and Densie Lucas and a host of great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday June 25, 2019 at 12 Noon at St. Ann Catholic Church, 365 Cool Spring Street, Fayetteville NC. Viewing to be held on Monday June 24, 2019 from 2-7 p.m. at Wiseman Mortuary.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers that donations to made to the Heart Association and the Alzheimer's Society.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Fayetteville Observer from Jun. 21 to Jun. 22, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Billy Manning

Sponsored by Wiseman Mortuary - Fayetteville.

9 Entries

Maria Rosado

September 17, 2025

Happy Birthday in Heaven Billy
You´ll forever be missed and loved

Maria Rosado

March 28, 2024

Mr Manning, my family and I will never forget you and the wonderful n loving memories at Peace Chapel. It was an honor for my son and I serving our Lord and Father side by side with you every Sunday. You will forever be missed and loved my dear friend. May your rest be sweet in Paradise Till we meet again

Your Neighbor

June 25, 2019

With deepest sympathy, may the power of prayer ease your sorrow, give you peace and provide much comfort for you during this difficult time Matthews 21:22

Dee Johns

June 24, 2019

I always had the highest regard for Mr. Manning when he was police chief of Spring Lake. I will never forget the year my daughter received presents on Christmas day from the police department and Chief Manning helped deliver them. He loved our town and the people.

Richard Washburn

June 20, 2019

As I scanned the obituary of my friend and colleague; Army veteran, Mayor of Spring Lake, Chief of Police, of Spring Lake, NC, and Cumberland County Deputy Sheriff; Billy Manning. To speak of his Life, his dedications, and his commitments to his country and community is astounding. A simple title
for my longtime friend is; A true American Gentleman. His life aspirations . . . Speak for him now! Peace be with you Chief Manning, while you rest!
Chief Deputy Sheriff (Retired) Major Richard (Dick) Washburn

Brenda and Joe Long

June 20, 2019

Billy Manning was a very fine family man, neighbor, and friend. His memory will linger in the hearts of so many. Deepest condolences to his daughter, Rita, his wife and all who had the privilege of having known him through the years.

Anne Campbell

June 19, 2019

I worked for Billy when he was Spring Lake Police Chief, and with him when he worked at Cumberland County Sheriff's Department. He helped my children and me when we were in a bad situation, and we have never forgotten him and what he did at a time when we may not have survived had it not been for him. I know he was a good man, and Heaven has a new angel on patrol tonight. To his family, my prayers are with you at this time. May Heavenly Father hold you in his arms and comfort you in your time of sorrow.

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