Michael Wayne Manley, Sr.

Michael Wayne Manley, Sr., 65, of Athens, died on Wednesday, March 8, 2023.

Born in Greenville, SC to the late John Austin Manley and Willie Sue Roling Manley, Michael grew up and spent most of his life in the Athens area. He served his country in the U.S. Army and then his community through service in the Athens-Clarke County Fire Department, from which he retired. He also worked at Dixie Painting. Michael enjoyed hunting, fishing, and loved all sports from golf to NASCAR. He may have been a fan of many teams, like the Falcons, but his heart belonged fully to his Dawgs. He shared his love by coaching recreation department football for Madison County. Michael also loved to cook, especially barbecue, and even created recipes for his own sauce and rub. He often shared ice cream with his beloved Boston terriers. He was a jokester and prankster who was well-known and well-loved by his community, friends, and most of all, his family.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, David Manley.

He is survived by his wife, Terri Clark Manley; children: Michael Wayne Manley, Jr. and Elizabeth Manley; sister, Debra McElroy; grandchildren: Autumn, Madison, Mason, Karoline, and Logan; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 18 at Lord and Stephens, West Chapel at 2:00 p.m. Mike would want his service to be as casual as he was, so friends are invited to dress in Mike's preferred uniform of t-shirt, shorts, and flip-flops, weather permitting. Following the memorial service, the family invites everyone to attend a celebration of life at the Oglethorpe Garage at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Rescue Ranch, a Boston Terrier rescue, at rescueranchpups.org .

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, GA, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com