John Richard Manning

"Yesterday's gone on down the river, and you can't get it back." - Gus McCrae

John Richard Manning, age 76, of Forrest City, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital in Jonesboro, AR. on February 22, 2026. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a leader whose legacy will be felt for generations.

John Richard Manning was born on December 6, 1949, to George and Evelyn Manning in Memphis, TN. A natural leader with a tireless work ethic, John dedicated his professional life to education. A 1967 graduate of Humes High School in Memphis, TN, he went on to play football on a scholarship at Harding University, carrying that athletic discipline into his career as a talented administrator. He was a lifelong learner, pursuing his MSE plus 30 until his advisor finally told him he had to either enroll in a doctoral program or stop enrolling-a testament to his constant drive to grow and learn.

Despite his many professional titles-coach, teacher, high school principal, school superintendent, and Director of the Crowley's Ridge Educational Co-op-he remained a deeply humble man. Whenever someone asked what he did for a living, his answer was always the same: "Teacher." He didn't just manage schools; he built environments where others could thrive, fueled by a creative yet stern spirit that let him see the potential in everyone.

Beyond his professional achievements, John was a man of rhythm and words. He was a gifted storyteller who could turn a simple memory into a vivid journey, and his deep love of music provided the soundtrack to his life. Whether he was listening to his favorite records or sharing a tale with friends, he lived with a vibrant, creative soul.

When he wasn't enjoying tinkering with a project, watching sports, or holding court with a story, he found peace in the soil of his garden. To John, tending his garden was another form of his creative expression-a place where his patience, storytelling, and hard work yielded tangible beauty.

Mr. Manning is survived by his devoted wife of 25 years, Judy Manning, three daughters Mica Manning Morales (Zach), Stacy Sutton Collins (Lee), and Anna Catherine Sutton, one son Morgan Richard Manning (Kristen), one sister Jo Evelyn Findley of Nashville, TN, and his cherished grandchildren, Miles Manning, Marin Manning, McKenna Morales, Mitchell Morales, and Hunter Owen Pugh.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George Manning and Evelyn Massey Manning, and one brother Steve Manning.

*Service details will be announced at a later time. Stevens Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. You may log on to stevensfuneralhome.net for the online registry.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First Baptist Church and First United Methodist Church in Forrest City, or any scholarship of choice in his honor.