John "Jack" McManus

John Thomas McManus, affectionately known as "Jack," was a beacon of kindness, resilience, and warmth. He touched the lives of so many with his unwavering spirit and genuine heart. His life story and impact embody the phrase he would reference often, Carpe Diem.

Jack was born on Feb 2, 1961 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Barbara and John McManus. Growing up as one of five siblings (Jim, Jane, Judy, and Joe), he created cherished memories with his family. Sports played a significant role in his life, and he excelled in baseball, soccer, and golf. However, it was tennis that truly captured his heart, earning him a state ranking.

Jack attended Georgia Southern University, majoring in Management. His time at Georgia Southern was marked by active involvement in the social fraternity Pi Kappa Phi where he held several offices, including Social Chairman. There are countless stories from a memorable four years at GSU, from adding a back deck to the fraternity house to annual beach weekends to attempting to add a par 3 golf course to the backyard. He cherished the lifelong friendships and personal growth he experienced within the fraternity.

Jack moved to Atlanta in 1983, where fate introduced him to Kristina Westaway. Their first date confirmed what they both knew: they were perfect for each other. Exactly a year later, in 1987 they married. In 1992 they welcomed their daughter, Hillary. Hillary brought boundless joy, earning the nickname "Sunshine" from her adoring father. Jack, Kristina, and Hillary had an incredible bond that was evident to all. Always prioritizing time together, the three had the best time creating countless fond memories from big trips to the mundane. On March 4th, 2023 a fourth member was added when Hillary married Matthew Frost. As Jack said in his memorable father of the bride speech, he hit the son-in-law lottery.

Jack founded Promotional Outfitters in 2000-a lifestyle business that allowed him quality time with his family. Jack always had a passion for entrepreneurship and marketing so Promotional Outfitters was the perfect outlet for his creativity for 23 rewarding years of business. He enjoyed working with all types of people and companies from King's Ridge to Heineken to Comcast seeking to help them tell their desired story through marketing solutions.

In addition to Promotional Outfitters, he dedicated himself to King's Ridge Christian School in Alpharetta. The McManus' were one of 125 founding families of the school and were heavily involved in many firsts of the school history. As Athletic Association President and Board member, he organized the school's first golf tournament and made game days memorable for students and families. Jack's initiatives increased attendance at basketball games and created the tailgating experience for football that is still enjoyed today. He knew that building a strong community was foundational for furthering the KRCS mission.

After 25 years in Alpharetta, Jack and Kristina moved to the South Carolina coastal town of Georgetown. There, Jack became President of the Georgetown Business Association and initiated the beloved Georgetown Beer and Wine Festival. His love for boating, pickleball, and community engagement flourished during this time.

Jack's family was his greatest joy, but his impact reached far beyond. He mentored countless individuals, always prioritizing others. His infectious smile and sense of humor brightened every room he entered. Jack's legacy lives on, inspiring kindness, community, and love.

Honoring His Memory

Jack's Celebration of Life will be held at King's Ridge Christian School in Alpharetta on Saturday, June 29 at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to King's Ridge Christian School, the Jack McManus Legacy Scholarship, and the Creutzfeldt Jacob Disease Foundation.

KRCS: https://www.kingsridgecs.org/jack-mcmanus-memorial-giving

Jack McManus Legacy Scholarship: https://donate.pikapp.org/gammakappacif

Creutzfeldt Jacob Disease Foundation: https://cjdfoundation.org/donate/