Otha Ray Manning, Sr.

Sunrise: January 30, 1942

Sunset: July 31, 2025

Funeral Services for Otha Ray Manning, Sr., age 83, will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM, at the Peaceful Chapel MB Church in Brownsville, TN with Pastor Felton Williamson officiating. There will be a visitation for the family on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM at the Peaceful Chapel MB Church. Burial will follow at the Brownsville Memorial Gardens in Brownsville, TN.

Otha Ray Manning Sr. was born on January 30, 1942, in Magnolia, Arkansas, to Willie Mae and Robert Manning Sr., both of whom preceded him in death. At an early age, Otha Ray gave his life to Christ. He shared his gift of music by singing in a gospel group, The Masters of Music, alongside his brothers. The group was founded in Argo, Illinois.

Otha Ray was a man of many passions. He loved fishing, cooking, and watching cooking shows. He enjoyed playing cards, listening to the blues, and most of all, spending time with his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Xavior Perry; his granddaughter, Indyah Reed; his great-grandson, Trayvon Jelks; his sisters, Shirley Manning and Dora Manning; and his brothers, Robert Manning Jr., Willie Jean Manning, and Mack Manning.

On July 31, 2025, Otha Ray peacefully departed this life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Josephine Manning, and their children: one daughter, Nedra (Jimmie) Taylor, and five sons — Otha Ray (Melissa) Manning Jr., James (Denean) Manning, Marvin (Tanya) Manning, and Delmar (Audrey) Perry. Otha Ray was a proud grandfather to 25 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his loving siblings: Angie Manning, Ida Haynes, Birdanna Wesley, Linda French, Pinky Lee (Steele) Jackson, Hosie (Ethel Mae) Manning, Truman Manning, and Allen (Kathy) Manning. He held a special bond with two beloved nieces, Carolyn Bond and Cissy (Redd) Richmond, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.