John J. Manning 1934-2022

Jack was born May 13, 1934, in Youngstown, and was preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude Manning and Patrick Manning; and his sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Joseph McTigue.

Raised in Youngstown, Jack attended St. Edward’s elementary school and graduated from Ursuline High School Class of 1952, where he got the nickname “Pickle,” and attended Ohio State and Youngstown State universities. He served in the U.S. Army and received an honorable discharge in 1955. Before retiring, Jack spent 27 successful years with Ohio Bell in Yellow Page sales.

Jack’s children called him “the friendly guy.” He took great pleasure in meeting people and entertaining new and old friends of all ages. He ensured everyone felt at home, often serving wings and a cold drink. He enjoyed his role as the family photographer, calling out an enthusiastic “smile” before taking a picture.

He spent the past 20 years living part-time in Port Charlotte, Fla., enjoying the beach and exploring the state. When not in Florida, he lived with his daughter, Susie and her family in Columbiana, and enjoyed visiting family in other cities and states. Regardless of where he traveled, he welcomed new experiences and always managed to find an ice cream to enjoy — especially “Spouse like a House” from Youngstown’s Handel’s.

He loved his family and cherished his nine grandchildren. Affectionately known as “Papa Jack,” he cheered them on in their academics, activities, sporting events and life milestones.

Jack leaves to honor his memory, his children, Karen Manning of Richmond, Va., Susie Davis of Columbiana, Melissa (Steve) Gentile of Forest Hill, Md., Maureen (Paul) Miczak of Cleveland and John (Jennifer) Manning of Seattle, Wash.; his former wife, Mary Grace Dignan Manning; nine grandchildren, Liddy Horsey (deceased), Amanda Davis, Hunter and Camille Zentner, Jordan and Hudson Gentile, Zoe, Shane and Aidan Miczak; devoted family, Sean Zentner, Tom Davis; and many nieces and nephews. His family is comforted knowing he is with his beautiful granddaughter, Liddy, and many others he loves.

Jack’s family will receive guests from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday, June 16, 2022, at St. Columba Cathedral, followed by a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial. On Friday, June 17, 2022, at noon, he will be interred in Calvary Cemetery, 248 S. Belle Vista Ave., Youngstown.

The family requests those wishing to memorialize Jack consider donations to The Dorothy Day House, c/o www.youngstowncatholicworker.com, a charity of your choice, or take a loved one for ice cream.

Professional arrangements are being handled by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel.

(special notice)