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Sandra Denise Manning, age 61, was born on March 10, 1964, in Martin County, North Carolina, and transitioned peacefully in her home, surrounded by love, on January 19, 2026. Sandra was a cherished mom, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend—someone whose presence brought warmth, strength, and comfort wherever she went. She was known for her kind heart, her resilient spirit, and her unwavering devotion to her family. She had a rare and beautiful way of making people feel seen, valued, and deeply loved—through her words, her actions, and by always showing up when it mattered the most. At the time of her illness, she was employed with Ayden Court dietitian department. She lived life on her own terms, moving to a rhythm entirely her own. Sandra truly marched to the beat of her own drum—bold, unapologetic, and beautifully authentic. She spoke her truth, stood firm in who she was, and reminded those around her of the quiet power of simply being real. Her strength was gentle, her love was fierce, and her spirit was unforgettable. She found joy in life’s simplest moments—being surrounded by family, sharing laughter that lingered long after it faded, and creating memories that will now live on as treasured gifts in the hearts of those she loved. As Scripture reminds us, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 Sandra lived her season fully, with courage, authenticity, and love, leaving behind a story that will continue through the lives she touched. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carrie Leatha Manning and John Wayne Manning Sr; nephews, Gregory Roundtree and Rodger Sumpter. She leaves behind a legacy of love carried forward by her children, her daughter, Fatima Lynette Manning, her sons, Quintin O'Reily Shorter (Shade), Marty Vivian Shorter, Jr., and Marquel Kemi Gardner; her beloved granddaughters, Shaquanza Keira Manning and Key'Mya Gardner; brothers, John P. Purvis (Bessie), John Manning Jr. (Kimba), and Larry Manning; sisters, Brenda Roundtree (Reginald), Tequilla Manning, Shelia Dunn (Daryl), Teresa Manning-Roach (James), Yvette Lee, Tuwanda Stokes, and Tomeka Carr (Tarrus) along with a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and dear friends. Though she is no longer with us in body, her love remains—woven into our laughter, our memories, and the quiet moments when we feel her presence near. Sandra will be forever loved, forever missed, and forever remembered.

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Ms. Sandra Denise Manning

March 10, 1964 - January 19, 2026