Lee Herron Manley, Jr.

Lee Herron Manley, Jr., 98, of Jasper, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on March 9, 2026. Born on February 16, 1928, in Maple Grove, Missouri, he was the son of the late Lee Herron Manley, Sr. and Ruth Irene (Shelton) Manley.

A 1946 graduate of Sarcoxie High School, Lee lived a life marked by hard work and quiet generosity. He served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War and later worked as a purchasing manager for Eagle Picher, a fuel delivery driver for MFA Oil, and a self-employed painter. He took special pleasure in tilling gardens on his tractor for neighbors and friends, reflecting his deep love for his community. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed quail and deer hunting, fishing for crappie, trout, and bass, and tying his own lures with patience and care. Above all, Lee was a devoted member and longtime door greeter at the United Methodist Church in Jasper, where his warm smile and welcoming presence touched everyone he met.

He married the love of his life, Margaret Still, on August 1, 1948, in Carthage, Missouri. She preceded him in death on October 12, 2019.

Lee is survived by his children, Cynthia Smith (Bob) of Mindenmines and Jim Manley (Nancy) of Oronogo; grandchildren Jessica Case (Allen) of Carthage, Justin Smith (Amy) of Lamar, Jason Manley (Callie Ann) of Oronogo, and Michael Manley (Erin) of Joplin; his brother Richard Manley of Lake of the Ozarks; his sister Lucille Kahl of Jasper; sisters-in-law Elizabeth Wilson and Connie Barclay; seven great-grandchildren with an eighth on the way; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother Gene Manley and his sister Doris Robinson.