Jack L. Manning

Jack L. Manning, 87, of Kerens, Texas, passed away Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at his residence in Kerens. He was born July 28, 1922 in Russell, Leon County, Texas to Bert & Robbie Manning.

He was a veteran of WWII and a very proud Marine Raider. The Raiders were the very first Special Opps Forces in the US military and his unit made six initial landings on the Pacific Islands. First to go in and last to leave was the Marine Code and he never ceased being a Raider.

He was an artist and created beautiful pieces of wood. Hundreds of homes in the Kerens area are graced with his works of art. He was a precious father, grandfather and great grandfather and will be missed greatly. He leaves a legacy of love and devotion not just to his family but to the many who called him friend.

He is preceded in death by by his parents, wife, Mary Manning and sister, Nan Manning.

He is survived by daughters, Robbie Cranford of Conroe, Amy Kent and son-in-law Bill of Kerens; Sister-in-law and husband Jean & James Boykin of Russell; grandchildren, Jennifer and Scott Pelczar of Conroe, Marcy and Javier Martinez of Austin, and Chad & Stacy Kent of Russell. He is also survived by the joy if his life great granchildren Tiffany and Blair Kent of Russell.

Visitation was 6pm to 8pm Wednesday at Paschal Funeral Home. Funeral Service was at 10 AM Thursday, December 3, 2009 at Paschal Funeral Home with Rev. Tommy Hayes officiating. Graveside service was at 2 PM Thursday at North Creek Cemetery in Russell, Texas. Pallbearers were Johnny Boykin, Benny Boykin, Phillip Street, Chad Kent Scott Pelczar, and Virgil Thurston. Honorary pallbearers were Otis Ray Spurlock, Larry Cottrell, Rick Neumayer, Javier Martinez, Hal Ray Collins, Thomas Hill, Nathan Cradduck, James Boykin and Eddie MaNeese.