Thomas E. Manning Jr.

Visiting hours will be held Friday morning from 10:30-12:00 at the Alexander F. Thomas and Sons Funeral Home 45 Common Street Walpole, relatives and friends invited.  Interment will be private at family's request.  

Thomas E. Manning Jr., known affectionately to friends and family as Tom, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on June 14, 2024, at the age of 91. Born on October 13, 1932, in Boston, MA, Tom was a beacon of intelligence, love, and kindness throughout his illustrious life.

Tom was united in love with his beloved wife, Claire M. (Sturiano), for a remarkable 64 years. Together, they raised a family that included their devoted children, Thomas E. Manning III and his wife Annmarie, Elaine M. Cashman and her husband Dennis, Stephen F. Manning and his wife Jeannine, Richard P. Manning and his wife Susan, and Mark J. Manning and his wife Nicole. Tom was also the cherished brother to Margaret Mayo, Dorothy Pasquale, and Kathleen Pimental.

His legacy continued through his role as a loving "Grand Pa" to Tom, Madeline, Catherine, Stephen, Christopher, Ryan, Tyler, Michael, David, Aiden, Ava, Amelia, and Andrew. Tom's life was further enriched by numerous loving nieces, nephews, and friends. Predeceased by his sisters Maureen Whitcher and Jeannie Hernon, and brothers John Manning and James Manning, Tom's memory will be treasured by all who had the honor of knowing him.

A proud Dorchester native, Tom was a Cathedral high school graduate who went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree from Northeastern University in Electrical Engineering. His commitment to his country was evident through his service in the United States Marine Corps from 1950 to 1953 where he served with distinction as a veteran of the Korean War. He continued to serve in the Marine Corps Reserves at South Weymouth Naval Air Station for over 25 years, retiring in the early 1990s with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. 

Tom's civilian career was equally impressive. After active duty, he worked at the Boston Navy Shipyard teaching electronics. His career at Honeywell Information Systems spanned nearly 35 years, where he began by training students on computer systems and rose to become Director of Education in the late 1970s. His expertise led him to Delphax Systems and later Xerox Corporation, where he designed training courses and taught electronics for high-speed printing systems until retiring at 75.

His hobbies showcased his varied interests and zest for life: owning and flying his own plane, restoring a classic 1965 Mustang convertible, and fixing vintage radios. These passions were only surpassed by his profound joy in spending time with his family and grandchildren. Right up to the age of 90, Tom could often be found working on projects around their houses, always ready to lend a hand and share a moment of love and laughter.

In addition to his family life and hobbies, Tom dedicated over 20 years as a Eucharistic minister at Blessed Sacrament Church in Walpole. His faith and dedication to service were cornerstones of his life, making him a friend to many and an inspiration to all who knew him. Tom’s passion for helping and teaching others was evident in every aspect of his life. He was the embodiment of selflessness, often giving without ever seeking anything in return.

Today, we remember Thomas E. Manning Jr. not only for his accomplishments but for the kind-hearted and generous spirit he carried throughout his life. His impact on the world extends far beyond the reach of his family and career, touching the lives of all who had the pleasure of crossing his path. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the profound and positive mark he left on this world. Tom's memory will live on as a testament to how one person's life, so fully and selflessly lived, can resonate and inspire countless others.

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