Nann Eldridge Manly, 82, of Dalton, GA, died on Friday evening, Nov. 9, 2012.
Born February 12, 1930, she grew up in Sylvester, GA. Upon graduation from Wesleyan College (Macon, GA) in 1950, she moved to Dalton to become the first full time Director of Religious Education at First Methodist Church. She and Judson Manly, Jr. were the first couple married in the (new) sanctuary, August 11, 1951. When Judson’s 2 years in the US Air Force included an assignment in Japan, Nann chose to travel solo on a freighter halfway around the world to join him there. Soon after her arrival, Nann discovered there was no kindergarten provided on the base. Nann Manly then did what she continued to do throughout her life—she saw a need and put her time and energy into meeting that need. The result of her labor was the creation of a self-supporting kindergarten with Nann as the teacher. After Judson completed his military service, the couple returned to Dalton where they raised 4 children. She began teaching kindergarten at First UMC after her youngest child was in school. During the 15 years of teaching, she also volunteered in numerous church activities, scout troops, school groups, and community organizations. Following retirement, she increased her volunteer activities until she was recruited to be the Executive Director of Friendship House. She was aware that the organization was struggling in many areas, so she worked diligently to revive and increase the programs offered, secured buildings and relocated Friendship House. The Daily Citizen News named her as Woman of the Year in 1983 in recognition of the many changes she had helped to put in place. Nann was a compassionate advocate who always put others first. Whenever she saw a need, she humbly tried to meet it without drawing attention to herself. Her constant encouragement, support and physical presence became a blessing in the lives of people of all ages.
Nann was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter Lisa.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Judson; her children, Diane, Julie, Mike and his wife Angie; sister, Polly Eldridge Basista and her husband Mike; her grandchildren, Kathleen, Abby, Maegen, Mark, Maggie and her husband Cameron; and a large extended family whom she loved deeply.
A service to lift up her life, service and faith in God will be held at First United Methodist Church at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 15. Burial will follow in the West Hill Cemetery.
Visitation with the family will be from 4-7 p.m. at Love Funeral Home on Wednesday, Nov. 14.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Nann with gifts to 1st UMC, 500 S Thornton Ave, Dalton, 30720, Friendship House, POBox 704, Dalton, 30722 or your favorite charity.
Love Funeral Home, 1402 N. Thornton Ave., Dalton (across from Hamilton Medical Center) is in charge of arrangements.