Billy Thomas Manning

Billy Thomas Manning, a cherished husband, devoted father, and beloved grandfather, passed away on June 30, 2024. He departed this world leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness that will forever remain in the hearts of all who loved him. Billy was born on June 22, 1935, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Manning and Lois (Huff) Manning; brothers, Buddy Manning and Doyle Manning, and his sister Bonnie Helton.

Billy worked at US Steel American Bridge in Indiana for 28 years as a welder. His name is on the last steel beam placed at the top of the Willis (Sears) Tower in Chicago. After retiring from the steel mill, he moved back to Arkansas where he drove semi-trucks and farmed. Billy’s favorite job, despite the heat and long hours, was farming. He was driving tractors before he could even reach the pedals. His work ethic and commitment could be seen in everything he did. In his leisure time, Billy enjoyed reading the newspaper in his recliner, solving crossword puzzles, and listening to the gospel music of Bill Gaither. Billy could also be found in his overalls working in his shop. He found joy in woodworking; making cabinets, lamps, or even wooden toys for the grandchildren. As a husband, Billy was the perfect example of devotion. Billy and Donnie’s love story began 69 years ago on Christmas Eve. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter. Their marriage is a testament to enduring love. Billy’s role as a father was nothing short of inspirational. He would take the girls camping and travel as often as he could. Billy’s love for his two daughters had no end. He imparted invaluable lessons of integrity and perseverance. His dedication to their well-being knew no bounds, and his legacy lives on through them. To his grandchildren, Billy was a source of endless love. His stories of long ago will forever be cherished. His wisdom and guidance will forever shape their lives, instilling in them the values he held dear.

In the circle of family and friends left behind by Billy's departure are his surviving loved ones: his cherished wife of 69 years, Donnie Manning; two daughters, Donna D'Azzena (Rodney) and Sandra Hudson (James); additionally, he is survived by eight grandchildren - Cellena Anderson (Steven), Tina Dolan (Nathan), Wendie Rogers (Brian), Rodney D'Azzena Jr., Aimee Lopez-Salter, Laura Cochran (Matt), Jacob Lee Hudson, James David Hudson; along with great-grandchildren, Cierra Murrah (Josh), CJ Anderson, Austin Rogers, Natalie Rogers, Cole Rees, Devin Salter, Tyler Salter, Johnathan Rogers, Rodney D'Azzena III, Caiden Anderson, Archer Cochran; and a great-great-grandchild, Addison Rogers. In addition to immediate family members are nieces, nephews, extended family members, and numerous treasured friends who will hold fond memories of Billy close to their hearts.

Though Billy has left this world, his spirit lives on in the memories we hold dear. We find comfort in the knowledge that Billy has found eternal peace, reunited with loved ones who went before him. Forever remembered, forever cherished, forever in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Billy. Daddy. Grandpa.

On July 5, 2024, a visitation for Billy Thomas Manning will be held at Smith Family Funeral Home in Hot Springs from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM followed by a funeral service at the same location from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. 

Pallbearers will be: R.D. D'Azzena, Jacob Hudson, James Hudson, C.J. Anderson, Austin Rogers, Cole Rees, Devin Salter, Tyler Salter, Caiden Anderson, and Johnathan Rogers.