Bobby Mack Maness

Bob passed away peacefully on February 28, 2025, just ten months after losing Jo Ruth, his beloved wife of 65 years. We'll celebrate his remarkable life on Saturday, March 8th at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, Longview, with a reception to follow at the Longview Museum of Fine Arts.
Born on March 25, 1936, in Dallas, TX, as the youngest of Evelyn and Wyatt Maness's children. He grew up in a loving, extended family. A graduate of Longview High School ('53) and SMU ('57), he was a leader in Phi Gamma Delta and where he met Jo Ruth. They married in Sept 1958 and built a life full of laughter, adventure, and love. In just 3½ years, they wrangled three kids-Linda, Jeff, and Kathy-into their bustling household and set off on a lifetime of fun, cruises, cross-country motorcycle trips, entertaining, and dedicated service to their church and community.
A successful entrepreneur, Bob founded Liberty Loan Co. in 1957 (four locations) and Maness Furniture Co. in 1962, later expanding to Tyler and Kilgore. Never one to sit still, he and Jo Ruth embraced real estate investments after retiring from their furniture ventures.
Known for his unwavering determination, Bob was a passionate leader and volunteer. His zest for life spilled into everything he did-whether as Longview City Councilman (8 yrs & mayor '78-'79), an 81-yr active member of FUMC Longview, or raising the funds for Inspiration House (providing AA & NA meeting spaces), to founding banks, and serving countless city/county and nonprofit organizations, Bob was a force to be reckoned with-a visionary who made things happen.
Survivors include daughters Linda (Brandon) Pitts and Kathy (Jay) Kreps; sister Wanda Jett; grandsons Brett, Reed, and Clark Pitts and Jordan Maness; six-year-old great-granddaughter Isla Pitts; loving niece Janie (Jon) Tate; nephews Rick (Michelle) Jett and Johnny (Cindy) Jett; and a bonus family of devoted caregivers and friends, including Maria Garcia, Keith Robison, David Choy, and Janette Boorman. Preceded in death by his son, Jeff, in 2019. Memorials may be made to FUMC Longview, Newgate Mission, or charity of your choice.
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