Thomas Joseph Manning, Jr.

Thomas Joseph “Tom” Manning Jr., of Devon, PA, a beloved community figure and devoted family man, passed away on May 20, 2026, at the age of 67.

Born in Drexel Hill, PA, he was the son of the late Thomas J. Sr. and Margaret A. (née Monaghan) Manning. Tom was the doted grandson of his grandparents, the late John Monaghan and Delia Manning; the devoted nephew of the late John J. Manning; the cherished cousin of the late John J. Manning Jr.; and the beloved son in law of the late Dr. Joseph Price and Mary Price.

Tom Manning was a gifted athlete, from his early days playing every conceivable game involving a ball on the streets of Upper Darby, to football & basketball at St. Dorothy's School, to the Boys Varsity Basketball team at Cardinal O’Hara, and into college and beyond. A proud graduate of Cardinal O'Hara High School, Tom extended his academic journey at Wilmington University and Millersville University via an athletic scholarship for men’s basketball. He displayed a diligent passion for the game of basketball that remained with him throughout his life. His teammates, opponents, and those who witnessed him from the stands admire and respect his prowess to this day.

Professionally, Tom was the proud owner (along with his sister Eileen) of Manning Travel Agency (incorporated by their father in 1976), a business through which he enhanced the lives of countless patrons by helping them plan remarkable vacations and unforgettable travel experiences. His loyal commitment to service naturally extended beyond the business realm into numerous community activities.

Tom was also deeply involved in coaching youth sports that his children participated in, sharing his love for basketball as a coach with the Paoli Wildcat’s League, St. Mary Magdalene and St. Monica CYO team. He instructed selfless teamwork and instilled confidence both on and off the court in a warm and humorous manner. All of his players (both his children’s friends and strangers) love him to this day, whether they spent just a season or several seasons under his tutelage. Most recently, Tom was an essential volunteer coach for the All Abilities Foundation of Greater Philadelphia basketball program. There, his players immediately fell in love with Tom’s incredibly passionate reactions celebrating their achievements and always fervently encouraging his players to do the best of their God given abilities. Tom continued to demonstrate his passion for athletics off the basketball court. He played high-level tennis for over 40 years and zealously taught the game to several of his children, who also excelled on the court. He established a close-knit fraternity that gravitated to him on the tennis court, playing together year-round until his final afternoon with us.

Beyond athletics, Tom was a faithful and long-serving usher and volunteer at St. Monica Church, a role he held with quiet humility and devotion that left a lasting impact on his parish family. His commitment to his faith and to helping others within his church community, with a seemingly permanent smile on his face, was one of his favorite selfless acts of joy.

Tom was a loyal friend to all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. During his middle school years, Tom and his family moved from Upper Darby to Springfield. He eventually infiltrated and was welcomed into the “St. Dots” brotherhood of Drexel Hill that has flourished for well over half a century. For the past decade, he has been an integral member of the neighborhood “MillSpring” poker club. When his grand-dog Spencer came into his life two years ago, a new friendship blossomed. Person and animal alike - that is who Tom was. A steadfast friend to those from his childhood and those he met later throughout his life, he was always there for those he knew for years or had just met who needed counsel, support, or a laugh. He was always there for others.

If you ever had the pleasure of coming to Tom’s kitchen, you never left feeling empty. The perfect gastronomic combo of nourishing, creative, and elaborate meals complemented his jokes, pranks, and stories that always left your soul overflowing with joy. Full bellies and a chorus of belly laughter was the standard he set.

Tom was the beloved husband of Michele (née Price) Manning for over 37 years; the loving father of Bryce Manning, Margaret “Maggie” Manning, Molly Manning, and Christine Manning. He was the caring brother of Marguerite Baxter (Keith), Patricia Frawley (Thomas), Elizabeth Robinson (the late Mark), and Eileen Rooney (Chris). He is also survived and adored by his cousin Thomas Manning; his many precious nieces & nephews who he loved more than they will ever know; his church family, friends, and acquaintances, and is predeceased by his dear sister, Teresa M. McLoughlin.

Relatives and friends are invited to honor Tom at a Viewing Wednesday evening, May 27, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 3300 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073. A Thursday morning Viewing will take place from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Monica Church, 63 Main Avenue, Berwyn, PA 19312, followed by a Funeral Mass commencing at 11:00 AM. Interment thereafter at SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tom’s memory to: All Abilities Foundation of Greater Philadelphia (Inclusive Community | All Abilities Of Greater Philadelphia – Philadelphia, PA), https://www.all-abilities-philladelphia.org/ or The Father Bill Atkinson Service Corps (Father Bill Atkinson Service Corps), https://www.friendsoffatherbill.org/support-us.