Francis Van Manning

America has lost another of her Vietnam Veterans. (Francis) Van Manning-age 77 of Maryville TN passed away Saturday, August 23, 2025 at UT Medical Center and is now at peace with his Savior. Van was a disabled combat veteran having served two tours as a Navy Corpsman aboard the USS White Plains and the USS Kittyhawk during the Vietnam Conflict. An accident on deck of the USS White Plains exposed all the sailors to Agent Orange and the resulting disabling consequences.
After being honorably discharged from the Navy, Van returned home to Jackson Mississippi and began his professional career as a Respiratory Therapist at Baptist Medical Center in Jackson. He later moved to Tennessee and continued his career at Woods Memorial Hospital in Etowah, and Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville. Through the efforts of dear friend Marye Beth Herring, Van was honored to be presented with a stunning Quilt of Valor in December 2024. He was proud to have served his country.
Van is survived by Brooke Williams, his loving partner of over 26 years; brother Bill Manning (Shirlee Grabko), Maynardville TN; sister Beth Ingram and family, Clinton MS; sister Ruth Cochran and family, Bude MS; nephew Tim Manning, San Jose CA; and dear friend Marye Beth Herring, Madison MS.
Military graveside service 12:30 p.m. Monday, September 29, 2025, East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 2200 East Governor John Sevier Highway, Knoxville presented by Tri-County Veterans Honor Guard. Please meet at the cemetery chapel at 12:15 p.m. Arrangements by Cooke-Campbell Mortuary, Maynardville.