Judith Anne Manning, known affectionately as Judy to her friends and family, passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025, at Mercy Hospital, Joplin, Missouri. She was born on June 8, 1952, in Kansas City, Missouri, the oldest of five children born to Harry Holloway and Zola (Kivett) Holloway. Judy excelled in her big sister role, often acting as a second mom to her younger siblings. Judy’s life was a testament to her loving, generous, and thoughtful nature.
Judy’s journey began as a student at Santa Fe High School in Alma, Missouri, where she graduated in 1970. Her love for learning and community led her to Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, where she furthered her education. Judy’s passion for knowledge blossomed into a career at Santa Fe High School, where she served as an educational aid in the library and special education classroom. She was a beloved figure among students and faculty alike.
Judy’s commitment to her community was evident through her active involvement in various associations. She served as the president of the school’s booster club, supporting and cheering on countless students in their academic and athletic endeavors. Her faith played a central role in her life, and she was a cherished member of the Elmwood United Methodist Church in Elmwood, Missouri. There, she not only shared her spiritual devotion but also contributed her talents as the church treasurer. Outside of her professional and community service, Judy found joy in the simple pleasures of life. During the summer months, she could be found working at Peter’s Orchard in Waverly, Missouri, where she enjoyed the beauty of nature and the satisfaction of a hard day’s work. Judy was also an extraordinary baker, known for her delicious cakes that graced the tables of many weddings and graduations in her community. Her culinary skills were matched by her talent as a seamstress. Judy crafted beautiful, ornate quilts and baby blankets, each stitch a symbol of her love and care for friends and family.
Judy’s legacy of love and generosity is carried on by her devoted husband of 54 years, Clarence Manning, and her loving son, Todd Manning and his wife Christy (Bracht). Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the life of her granddaughter, Olivia Manning. Judy’s warmth and kindness will also be fondly remembered by her brothers, Jeff Holloway of Sedalia, MO, and Jay Holloway of North Fort Myers, FL; her sister, Janet Bergman (Roger) of Holts Summit, MO; and the many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who were blessed to know her. Besides her parents, she was also preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Laura Beth “L.B.” Manning, and her brother, John Holloway.
Judy’s final wishes were to be cremated. The family will hold a celebration of Judy’s life at the Blackburn, Missouri Civic Center on Saturday, March 29th, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Memorial gifts are suggested to the Carthage Fair Acres Family Y Kraken Swim Team in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.
