James Ray Manning

James Ray Manning, affectionately known by many as a devoted brother, father, uncle, and friend, was born on February 27, 1943, in Greenville, North Carolina. He was nurtured in love and rooted in faith from an early age, receiving his education in the Pitt County School System. A devout believer, James accepted Christ as a young man and was a faithful member of Hayes Chapel during his early years in North Carolina. In the 1960s, he relocated to Paterson, New Jersey, to live with his beloved sister, Willie Mae Manning Holly. Upon settling in Paterson, he became an active member of Gilmore Memorial Tabernacle, where he continued his walk with the Lord in his new community. He was also a dedicated member of the men's choir and an active part of the praise and worship team.
James was a man of quiet strength and unwavering work ethic. He began his career at Astro Packaging in Hawthorne, NJ, and later served as the head custodian at School #28 in Paterson, where he worked diligently and faithfully for 29 years before retiring. He found simple joy in scrap metal collecting, a pastime that brought him both peace and pride. A familiar and cherished presence in the community, James could often be found at local county games, cheering enthusiastically for his nieces, nephews, and neighborhood youth in the county sports leagues.
James shared a special bond with his brother-in-law Deacon Benjamin Mason, and together they enjoyed the excitement of attending NHRA races. He cherished spending time with his daughter and grandchildren, enjoying trips to Atlantic City and family outings. His passion for sports extended into the home and he never missed an opportunity to sit with his niece and nephew Gigi and Kenny on Sundays to watch the football games. He was a proud supporter of his favorite team, the New York Giants, and equally passionate about baseball as a dedicated New York Mets fan. His expressive nature made his presence known and felt, always speaking with conviction and heart.
One of James's favorite daily rituals was his walk to the local bodega Quinones Grocery, where he was not only recognized, but truly loved. There, he would enjoy friendly conversation, try his luck with scratch offs and play the pick-it. He would win often, bringing a bit of excitement and joy to those around him. James also loved Western movies and was an avid WWE fan, watching with the same fervor and loyalty he showed in every other part of his life.
James Ray Manning was a man of character, deeply connected to his faith, his family, and his community. He was a generous and caring man who gave selflessly to his family, supported the homeless, and contributed to various charities. He will be remembered for his passion, his humor, his unwavering support of those he loved, and the powerful presence he carried into every room he entered. His legacy lives on in the memories of all who had the blessing to know him.
On Friday, August 1st, 2025, God called James Ray Manning home to eternal rest.
James was preceded in death by beloved parents Ander and Mamie Manning, sisters Deaconess Dorothy Mason, Willie Mae Manning Holly, Mamie Ruth Manning, his brother John Lee Manning, and companion Diane M. Cooke.
James leaves to cherish wonderful memories with his daughter Shaheeta C. Frierson, and devoted grandchildren Key'Money Frierson, and Za'Meir Muckle of Paterson, NJ. He also leaves his aunt Mary Estelle Manning-Wilson of Rocky Mount, NC. He leaves his brother Willie (Mary) Wilkes of Greenville, NC. James leaves his devoted nieces and nephew Big John (Vernita) Manning of Altavista, VA, Judie (David) Cooke, Kareema Banky Little of Huddleston VA, Helen Manning of Burlington, NC, Paris Mason of Paterson, NJ a devoted niece and caretaker Genetria (Kenny) Mason-Grant of Paterson, NJ, Levi Little of Virginia Beach, VA. James leaves brother in law deacon Benjamin Mason of Paterson, NJ. He also leaves his devoted god children Pierre Warren-Mason and Hakima Lakisha (Jude) Mason-Joseph of Paterson, NJ. He also leaves his friend David Freeman and special cousin David Edwards both from Paterson, NJ. James also leaves a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He will truly be missed by all who loved and knew him.