Roger B. Manning

Roger Bruce Manning, 70, of Hot Springs, passed away Sept. 26, 2021. He was taken too early from this world by that heartless (expletive) that is COVID.

Roger was born March 2, 1951, to William and Hildred Manning. Roger’s infectious smile and inability to say less than 1,000 words in any conversation stole the heart of his shy and introverted high school sweetheart, Susan. They were married Nov. 25, 1972, and were looking to celebrate their 49th wedding anniversary this year.

Roger leaves behind his loving wife, who affectionately … and frequently … referred to him as “you old (expletive)”; his children, Mackenzie Barber (Kamron) of Malvern, Clay Manning (Jennifer) of Carthage, N.C., and his favorite child, Magnum (Mackenzie and Clay understand a four-legged fur-baby like Magnum, who never snuck out or asked for money is hard to compete with and wholeheartedly accept their second and third place finishes in the family); his brother, Darrel, and his other brother Darrell … sorry wrong family … Ron Manning (Jane) of Bentonville, and Rick Manning (Judy) of Pine Bluff (Roger broke the mold and married a woman with an “S” name and didn’t follow the “RJ” combo like his brothers, but it does finally explain why growing up we always thought her name was Jeez-louise Susan every time he spoke to her … maybe there was another reason for that); five grandchildren, Tyler Barber (Alex) of Malvern, Austin Barber (and his current Tinder date), Josh Barber (and his current alpha beta zeta gamma kappa delta phi lambda sorority date), Nash Manning and his favorite chew toy (he’s a dog, so it is an actual chew toy and not a pet name (pun intended) for a girlfriend), and Ranger Manning (with his lovable derpy face).

Visitation will be at 1 p.m., followed by the services at 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 1, in the Caruth-hale Life Celebration Center (2529 Airport Road, Hot Springs). Here we will celebrate the life of Roger with the “the jolliest bunch of (expletive) this side of the nut house.” The service will also stream online. COVID mitigation is strongly encouraged for in-person guests.

Guests may register at http://www.caruth-hale.com.