Obituary of Matthew Manning

Matthew A. Manning left us suddenly on December 14, 2022.  He was 86 years old.

Matthew was born in Philadelphia, PA on November 4, 1936 to the late Joseph and Elizabeth Manning.  To his family and others he was also known as “Buddy”.  Most of his childhood he resided in Philadelphia, PA and Camden NJ.  He later on moved to Pennsauken, NJ and then for the last 15 years resided in Sea Isle City. 

In 1955, Matthew enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was proud of the 8 years of active service.  He served as a Petty Officer 3^rd aboard the USS Kenneth D. Bailey Destroyer during the Korea War.  He would often tell stories of his time served and was a true “Tin Can Sailor”.  Matthew went on to become a NJ Transit bus driver for 32 years before retiring. 

Through the years, he enjoyed taking out his boat and spending the day on the water fishing.  He was an active member of the Sea Isle City VFW Post #1963 where he enjoyed spending time with family, friends and other current or former Military members.  He was also always very proud of his cars through his years, but all his different Mustangs were his favorite. 

Matthew is predeceased by his parents, Daughter Linda Manning, Siblings Joseph, Mary and Eleanor.

He is survived by his loving fiancee of 38 years, Anne Devitt and his children, Sharon Carpenter (Doug), Kelly Manning-McKay (Jeff), Maria Manning-Nevin (Dan), Matthew Manning II (Allison) along with his 14 Grandchildren, 1 Great Grandchild and Sister Carole Jackson. 

His Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Tuesday morning, December 20th at 11 o'clock from St. Joseph's RC Church, 4308 Landis Avenue, Sea Isle City, NJ where friends may call from 10 o'clock until the time of mass. Burial will follow mass in Cape May County Veterans Cemetery, Cape May Court House, NJ.

In Leiu of flowers, donations can be made to Sea Isle City VFW Post #1963, 301 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Sea Isle City, NJ  08243 in memory of Matthew Manning.

Arrangements are by The Godfrey Funeral Home of Palermo. For condolences to the family, visit www.godfreyfuneralhome.com