James Roy Manning Jr. passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 1, from complications of dementia, after living a long, meaningful, and productive life.
He leaves behind a legacy as a devoted father, a respected coach, a dedicated law enforcement officer, and a loyal friend.
James’s life began with both promise and tragedy. At the tender age of two, he lost his mother, Mamie Manning, and his sister, Sharon Manning, in a devastating car accident.
His father later remarried, and James was raised by his stepmother, Sally Bet Manning, who helped shape the values that guided him throughout his life.
Determined to become the first in his family to earn a college degree, James pursued higher education at Chowan College, where he developed his study skills and built lifelong friendships.
He later graduated from East Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree, paving the way for a successful and service-oriented career.
James met and married Lavae Baker, and together they settled in her hometown of Beulaville, North Carolina, to raise their family.
The couple welcomed two children, James R. Manning III and Lora Sharon Manning.
With his own hands and the help of friends, family, and local workers, James built their family home — a reflection of his dedication, craftsmanship, and perseverance.
His professional journey began in social services before he transitioned into the probation and parole field, where he served until his retirement.
Throughout his career, James treated everyone he encountered with dignity and respect, earning admiration for his fairness and compassion.
Outside of work, James dedicated his time to the community as a Little League Baseball coach, partnering with his neighbor, Terry Williams, to lead championship teams.
His love for the outdoors defined much of his life — he was an avid hunter and fisherman who found peace in nature and joy in sharing those experiences with others.
Whether teaching young hunters or taking friends fishing, James’s patience and enthusiasm made him a beloved mentor to many.
Following a difficult divorce, James poured his energy into his work, his farm, and his grandchildren.
His favorite days were spent in the fields with his bird dog, Speck, fishing off Topsail Island, or exploring the waters of the Roanoke River in search of the perfect catch.
He cherished attending his grandchildren’s games and made each one feel valued and special.
In the last 15 years of his life, James found companionship and adventure with Lucille Tyndall of Swansboro.
Together, they created new memories through road trips and family outings, often taking their grandchildren to shows at Myrtle Beach.
James was known for his infectious laugh and love of humorous movies.
A skilled fisherman with a competitive spirit, he was affectionately known as someone no crappie in North Carolina could escape.
His kindness, humor, and warmth touched everyone around him, and his absence will be deeply felt.
James is preceded in death by his birth mother, Mamie Holliday Manning; his parents, James Roy and Sally Bet Manning; and his sister, Sharon Manning.
He is survived by his partner, Lucille Tyndall of Swansboro, NC; his son, James Ray Manning III (“Jay”) and wife Tina of Hampstead, NC; his daughter, Lora Manning Gilreath and husband John of Kill Devil Hills, NC; his sister, Valarie Harrell and husband Thomas of Williamston, NC; his brothers, Robert Manning and Ronnie Manning (Angie), both of Williamston, NC; and his beloved grandchildren — Sophia Manning, James Manning IV, Riley Gilreath, Sydney Manning, Hampton Gilreath, and Asa Gilreath.
Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville, NC, followed by a visitation.
Interment will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Woodlawn Cemetery in Williamston, NC.
Community Funeral Home of Beulaville is honored to serve the Manning family as they celebrate the life and legacy of James Roy Manning Jr. — a man who lived with purpose, gave selflessly, and left behind a legacy of kindness, family, and love for the outdoors.
