James F. Manning

James Manning, known as Jim or Jimmy, age 97 of Crosslands, Kennett Square, PA, passed away on March 20, 2026, after a short illness. Jim is survived by wife Catherine Sue Bradley Yarnall Manning; daughters Lynn Manning Lista (William) and Susan Manning; and stepdaughters Linda Yarnall Sohanic, Marianne Yarnall (Carla), and Nancy Yarnall Yezuita (Dave). Also surviving Jim are grandchildren Cayce Lista Farina (Brian) and James Matthew Lista (Rachel); step-grandchildren Anna Yezuita (Blaise Labik) and Ben Yezuita (Olivia); and great-grandchildren Charlotte Lista, Theadora Lista, and Lydia Farina. Jim is pre-deceased by first wife Eva Wilson Manning, stepson David Yarnall, and stepson-in-law Michael Sohanic.

Jim, son of James F. Manning, Jr. and Florence Kathryn Graul Manning, was born and grew up in the West Chester area with three siblings, Sarah Jeanette McGoldrick, Kenneth Paul Manning, and Alan Dwight Manning. He was one of 22 students graduating in the class of 1946 from Unionville High School. Shortly after school, Jim joined the U.S. Navy and served in the Submarine Service on the USS Ronquil while stationed in San Francisco. After serving in the Navy, Jim spent 42 years working at Bell Telephone/Bell Atlantic in West Chester before retiring in 1992.

Besides his work at Bell, Jim enjoyed family and taking care of his home in Pocopson Township, where he lived for 36 years prior to moving to Crosslands. Jim was a lifelong athlete, playing high school sports and enjoying archery, distance running, and golf. Jim was also an accomplished wood carver. He specialized in duck and bird carvings, which are cherished treasures in the homes of many family members and friends. Jim, during his life, participated in church activities, community activities, and many volunteer opportunities. Always a family man, Jim enjoyed nothing more in his later years than visits from his grandchildren and young great-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Funeral Mass on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 10:00 am at St. Patrick Church Cypress & Meredith Street Kennett Square PA 19348

The burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Kennett Area Community Service, Kennett Square, PA.