Charlie L. Manning Jr.

Charlie L. Manning Jr. BETHEL - Mr. Charlie L. Manning, Jr., died peacefully at his home on Thursday, March 4, 2010. Mr. Manning was born in Pitt County on April 30, 1927, at the Manning home place, better known as "Mama's". His parents were the late Lillie James Manning and Charlie L. Manning Sr. He was the fourth of seven children. He was predeceased by his parents; two sisters, Lona Manning and Mary James Sexton; brother, Laddie Gordon Manning; and sister-in-law, Mary L. Manning. He was also predeceased by a son-in-law, Ronnie Mills; three brothers-in-law, Floyd Phillips, Joe Rawls and Delton Perry. Charlie was the loving supportive and best friend of his wife, Janie Edmondson Manning for forty seven years. Together they provided a Godly home of love, trust, joy, and friendship for their two children, Kim Mills Evans and Charlie L. Manning III (Lee). They always knew daddy would guide, help and support them through their choices. Charlie was a farmer who found great joy and pride in his work. He always honored the land he worked, both owned and rented. He understood what it meant to replenish the earth and the earth would give back to you the fruits of his labor. He enjoyed sitting around "The Store," Whitehurst Station, talking, playing checkers, cards, as well as learning and sharing ideas on farming. These farmers understood the importance of being supportive of each other. Charlie served numerous years on the Farm Bureau Board. He was elected several terms as the area committeeman for the Pitt County Farm Service Agency. He enjoyed the people who worked in both the Pitt and Martin County US Department of Agriculture offices. After retiring, Charlie joined the Tuesday night Bethel Rotary Club. He also met with a group of five men on Thursday night. He looked forward to Tuesday and Thursday night fellowship, the stories and the laughter that's so good for the soul. He was an active member of the Bethel United Methodist Church where he served as usher, was on the Board of Trustees and the General Board. His greatest joy came in greeting people on the front porch of the church, where he faithfully operated the elevator. He also found great pleasure in the Florie Whitehurst Sunday School Class. He would, with a twinkle in his eyes and a teasing smile, offer you a church bulletin in exchange for a dollar for the collection plate. Charlie was a quiet Christian man who daily "walked the walk, rather than talk the talk". He attended the Bethel schools and North Carolina State University. He was an avid fan of all sports. He enjoyed watching the games on television. Charlie served in the Armed Forces during World War II. He served a tour of duty in Germany. The most pronounced characteristic of his life was his devotion to family. A devoted son, brother, husband, daddy, father-in-law, granddaddy, great-granddaddy and uncle, his favorite times were gathering together at the home place, "Mama's" for reunions and holiday celebrations. He is survived by his loving wife, Janie; daughter and husband, Kim and Jimmy Evans of Greenville; son and wife, Lee and Libby Manning of Bethel; grandchildren, Ryan Brittany and Taylor Mills of Greenville, Katie and Nicholas Manning of Bethel; and great-grandchild, Ashlyn Mills of Greenville. Also surviving are his sisters, Ruby Phillips of Greenville, Valeria Rawls and Arlene Manning of Bethel, Lona and husband, Ben Howser of Newport News, Va.; brother-in-law, Fred Sexton and wife, Faye of Lillington; nieces, Carol and husband, Emery Davis of Bethel, Carla and husband, Dr. Doug Peaden of Roanoke Rapids, Joan and husband, Jack Campbell, of Washington, N.C.; nephews, Dr. Scott Rawls, of Philadelphia and Charles "Chuck" Howser and wife, Crystal of Newport News, Va.; numerous great and great-great-nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Ola Perry and family, of Bethel. Funeral service will be held at Bethel United Methodist Church, Saturday at 11 a.m. Visitation will be held tonight from 6:30 to 8:30 at Bethel United Methodist Church. Memorials may be sent to the United Methodist Church organ or window fund. Special thanks to his doctors, nurses, pharmacist and other staff at the Leo Jenkins Cancer Center; Bethel Family Practice and Bethel Pharmacy; Wendy Cooke, nurse and Hospice workers with Roanoke Home Health Service; Linda Andrews, who has faithfully assisted in the home; to friends, extended family and our minister, Steve Smith. On-line condolences may be sent to www.walkerfh.net.