Cochran – William Arelius Manning, Jr., age 74, passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, in Bryant Health & Rehabilitation Center, surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. in the Bethany Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

William was born in Macon, GA. He was the son of the late William Arelius Manning, Sr. and Freida Mae Kitchens Manning Kersey. William had lived most of his life in Cochran. He was a graduate of Cochran High School, Class of 1969. William served two years in the Army National Guard.He was retired Civil Service from Robins Air Force Base. After his retirement, William started Bill's Clock Shop, where he collected and fixed antique clocks. He absolutely loved working on clocks and watches. He also enjoyed looking for old clocks at yard sales, antique shops and online. He was a member of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors. William was an animal lover. He had a special bond with his beloved Chihuahua, Roxy who passed in 2021. William was a faithful member of Bethany Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon.

Survivors are his wife, Marcia Manning of Cochran; his son, Matthew (Erica Jiles) Manning of Cochran; his stepdaughter, Carlie Crystal Collins; his siblings, Jerry (JoAnn) Manning, Curtis (Jenny Sue) Manning and Pam Manning (Dave) McElligott of Cochran; Tony (Jewell) Manning of Helen; several great nieces and nephews.

In lieu of Flowers, donations may be made to Bethany Baptist Church, 608 GA Hwy 26, Cochran, GA 31014.

The family is at 109 Holly Ross Rd, Apt. 1, Cochran and will greet friends on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. at Mathis Funeral Home.