Clarence "Gene" Manning

Clarence Eugene “Gene” Manning was born November 21, 1952, in Bastrop, Louisiana to Harold and Charlene (Smith) Manning. He joined his Lord on December 30, 2025, at the age of 73.

Gene spent his youth in Pine Bluff, Arkansas attending Dollarway schools and joined the Arkansas Army National Guard in 1971. After moving to North Little Rock and working a variety of jobs, he began working for the National Guard, first as a federal employee then later as Active Guard Reserve (AGR), leaving the Guard after 16 years to co-own and operate Sunshine Cleaners & Laundry until selling the business in 2009.

He moved to his forever home in Beebe, Arkansas and immersed himself in reading and woodworking in his shop. Gene had a marvelous imagination and designed and created many beautiful items to share with others – especially his father.

Gene attended Stoney Point Methodist Church for several years and developed a close and lasting relationship with Christ which sustained him even when he was no longer able to attend.

Gene was predeceased by his parents and two sisters, Patricia and Tammy Manning.

He is survived by stepsister Nelwyn (David) McGriff, sister Carolyn Burden, his wife Sarah Manning, daughter Sara (Will) Drew, stepdaughter Natalie (Kraig) Magby, and close friend Max (Laura) McCleod who he thought of as a son, as well as one grandson, one step grandson and one step granddaughter, and many nieces, nephews and friends whom he loved dearly.

Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. followed by Funeral service at 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, 404 W. Dewitt Henry Dr., Beebe, Arkansas. Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 7, at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. Online guestbook at www.smithfamilycares.com