James Odell Manning

James Odell Manning, 78, of Columbus, GA died Saturday, April 19, 2025 at his residence.

A memorial service will be held 2:00 PM Wednesday, April 23, 2025 in the Chapel of McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory with Eddie Beach officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home, 3874 Gentian Blvd Columbus, GA 31907.

James was born May 12, 1946 in Columbus, GA to the late Harry Elbert Manning, Sr. and Lois Laveda Allen. He attended Jordan High School where he held a track mile record of 4:35 and graduated in 1964. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in Fire Science then he became a firefighter for the Columbus Fire Department for 22 years and retired as a Captain. He was an avid Golfer and Alabama football fan. James coached Little League and Senior League Baseball for 19 years.

Other than his parents he was preceded in death by his sisters, Bobbie Powell and Sandy Williams and his brother, Harry O. Manning, Jr.

James is survived by his wife, Doris Williams Manning of Columbus, GA, children, James Odell Manning, Jr. (Becky) of Columbus, GA, Craig Manning (Leslie) of Fortson, GA, step children, Robert Hall of Smith Station, AL, Jeff Hall (Vivi) of Oklahoma City, OK, grandchildren, Hannah Manning of Phenix City, AL, Khloie Manning of Fort Walton, FL, Cole Manning of Atlanta, GA, Nate Manning of Columbus, GA, step grandchildren, Elli Hall of Oklahoma City, OK, Becca Hall of Oklahoma City, OK, Gabby Hall of Oklahoma City, OK, Analise Hall of Oklahoma City, OK, Emily Hill of Columbus, GA, Cole Hill (Morgan) of Fortson, GA, great grandchildren, Jace Manning, Journey Manning, Berkeley Eversman, Hudson Hill and several nieces, nephews and other family members.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Tunnel to Towers Foundation at todaysveterans.org