Bobby J. Manning SMSGT

Bobby J. Manning SMSGT
 

Bobby J. Manning, of Harrington, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, May 22, 2016, surrounded by his loving family.  He was born in Burneyville, OK to the late William H. (Boss) and Ruth Manning.

Bobby was a proud veteran retiring from the U.S. Air Force after 28 years of active service.  During his career as an Airborne Communications Systems flight crew member, Bobby was stationed in many states and countries including combat service in Vietnam.  SMSGT Manning operated radio communications systems in flight on 10 different types of military aircraft.  Awards included the Meritorious Service medal, Air Medal, AF Commendation Medal, AF Good Conduct Medal, Air Forces Expeditionary Medal, Antarctica Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal (Army), Combat Readiness Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After retiring from the service, he was a poultry grower for many years.  He was a Life Member of the VFW Post 7478 in Greenwood, DE.  Bobby was also a member of the American Legion, The Vietnam Veterans of America and the Kent County Amateur Radio club.  As a member of the VFW Post 7478, Bobby was a former Post Commander, Post Adjutant and Post Quartermaster.  He was also the District 4 Adjutant for 25 years and the District 4 Quartermaster for 20 years.  One of his favorite duties was as Post Chairman for the Greenwood VFW BBQ.  Bobby will always be remembered as the Public Relations Rock Star of the BBQ.

Bobby was an active volunteer for decades with many community and civic organizations including Greenwood Cheer Center, Meals on Wheels, DAFB Pharmacy and as a HAM Radio Club Test Administrator and Instructor.  He was a long time member of the Harrington Baptist Church.

Bobby loved his family above all else and cherished his wife, children, and grandchildren.  he was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.

Bobby is predeceased by a brother, Dale Manning.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Connie B. Manning of Harrington; sons, Bobby J. (Susan) Manning Jr. of Sykesville, MD, Ronald D. (Andrea) Manning of Mt. Royal, NJ, James E. (Kathy) Manning of Middletown, DE; brother, Don Manning of Texas City, TX; sisters, Vanta "Dean" Reed of Port Neches, TX, Sandra Manning of Marietta, OK; 5 grandchildren.

A visitation will take place at Melvin Funeral Home, 15522 South DuPont Hwy., Harrington, on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 from 6 to 8 PM.  A funeral service will take place at the Harrington Baptist Church on Thursday, May 26, 2016 at 3 PM.  Interment will take place Tuesday, May 31, 2016, at 11 AM at the Delaware Veterans Cemetery, Bear.   

Arrangements are by the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home Inc, Harrington, DE.  Visit us at www.melvinfuneralhome.com to send flowers or sign condolence book.

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