David Austin Manley

David Austin Manley, age 67, of Athens, Georgia died peacefully on September 15 after an extended illness. He was born to the late Willie Sue Roling Manley and the late John Austin Manley on October 2, 1951.

David, a native Athenian, was a member of Athens High School’s Class of 1970. After high school he married Eddie Anderson and later moved to Colbert, Georgia where they raised their family.

David was an athlete in his teenage years and as a father continued his love of sports by coaching his four children in recreational sports. He was an avid Georgia Bulldog fan and could be found every game day cheering on his Dawgs.  David was one of three children: one brother, Michael (Terri) Manley and one sister, Debra (Steve) McElroy. David loved his family, and his four children who always came first. He loved his dear companion of fifteen years, Shadow the boxer, who was beside him till the end. He loved sharing the holidays with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He especially loved hosting everyone at Christmas, a love he inherited from his parents. David was a gentle soul with a story and joke for everyone.  His family and friends will treasure his memorable grin and ability to handle whatever life sent his way.

In addition to his parents, David was predeceased by his brother, Timothy, who died in infancy.

David is survived by his daughters Elissa (Brent) Danforth of Nashville, Georgia and         Farrah (Chris) Hill of Royston, his sons Tim Manley and Nathan Manley of Comer, and his grandchildren: Jessica Spradlin, Bryce Danforth, Erica Hill, Conner Hill, Hannah Scarborough, Krysta Danforth, and Cara Lou Hill. He had four great-grandchildren: JoJo Griffin, Shelbi Griffin, Layne Purvis and the late Kailor Spradlin. David, is also survived by his uncle, Kenneth (Marianne) Roling who was more like a brother to him through the years. In addition, he is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of David’s life will be held at Lord and Stephens East Chapel on Tuesday, September 17, 2019 at 2pm. Visitation will be from 1-2pm on Tuesday. Burial will follow the service at Colbert City Cemetery. Please make donations in David's name to the Madison County Animal Shelter.

Lord and Stephens - East is in charge of arrangments.