Maryann Murphy Manning

I can't believe that Dr. Manning is gone...I loved her so much! I just got my yearly update about MidSouth this summer and noticed the info about her. She was the most important mentor and teacher in my life. I last saw her at a Literacy for All Institute in July 2009. She continued to be so encouraging to me, and I was so lucky to get a chance to catch up with her. As an advisor in the PhD program, a teacher, and a friend, she will always mean the world to me. She lives in my and...

When the email came announcing MidSouth Reading and Writing Conference at UAB for the summer, I heard about your mother's passing. I can't image a world without MaryAnn Manning in it. I know that MidSouth will definitely not be same and yet I know somehow your mother will be there in spirit still. She was such an inspiration to so many. Her love of reading was contagious to everyone she was around. She brought a light to the world that will continue on in the hearts of all who knew her....

I only just heard about Maryann's passing. I was shocked and saddened by the loss of such an extraordinary woman. She was a friend who shared my love of children's literature.

Faye Gibbons, Deatsville, AL

Marilee, your mom was a God-send in my life & her encouragement changed my life forever. I enjoyed working for her for 3 years & she never failed to push me to be all I could. I called her "Tigger" who kept bouncing, pouncing, & pushing me on. What a gift she was to all her students and all the children who have benefited from her research, her strong beliefs, and personal work. I will never forget her and all the good times we shared at UAB and your home. I lost my mom 13 years ago and I'm...

We will miss such a wonderful teacher and person. What a gift she was to all whose lives she touch!

It was a sad surprise to hear that Maryann's family and many professional friends lost her presence. I was very happy to have been a featured author at two of the conferences she planned in Birmingham. Knowing her, and being a guest in her gracious home, was unforgettable. What an impact she made on students, authors, illustrators, and the vast world of young readers she touched. What a privilege to know her. William Anderson

Marilee, My husband & I attended your precious Mom's memorial yesterday. I wanted to meet you and express my condolences, but I was overcome with emotion. What a moving and beautiful
tribute to your wonderful Mother. I pray God will comfort your heart each day with the good works Maryann did each day of her life. She was not only an advocate for literacy, but also for the teachers who understand what literacy means. I remember so many times when she would talk about going to Montgomery...

Maryann was a special person and a special friend. We loved her.

Maryann...you will be missed...so glad that our paths crossed...