Kirby Wallace Manning, 84, of Ocala, FL, passed away on July 19, 2024, with his beloved wife and family by his side. Kirby was born on October 3, 1939, in Pensacola, Florida to his parents, Haywood Singleton Manning and Gertrude Bugge Manning. Growing up, the importance of education is shown in his list of achievements including: graduating from Murphy High School in Mobile, Alabama, attending Auburn University, and later graduating in 1966 from Mississippi Southern University. Kirby served in the US Army as a Specialist-5 from 1959-1963. He was the Founder/President/CEO of Manning Building Supplies of Florida with locations in: Orlando, Ocala, Jacksonville, Lakeland, Ft. Pierce, St. Augustine, West Palm Beach, and Vero Beach. He lived his life like he ran his business with honesty, integrity and respect for all. His business associates knew that if Kirby said something he meant it. His employees all enjoyed working for him where he taught them much about business and life. He appreciated all his employees and respected each one. His business grew exponentially through his partnership with great businessman and longtime friend, James H. "Spike" Cissel.

Kirby had a strong faith in God albeit quietly. He was a member of Grace Episcopal Church in Ocala, FL. Kirby was humble in his accomplishments and success.

Some of the awards he obtained were the Pioneer of the Industry Award Florida Builders Association, Ocala Metropolitan Rotary Honoree of the Year for contribution to golf in Ocala area, Winner of Country Club of Ocala Member/Guest Tournament with his brother. He volunteered for Boys Club of Ocala, Vice President of Marion County Homebuilders, Florida Builders Association Board Member. Kirby was also a member of Grace Episcopal Church in Ocala, FL, the Home Builders Association, Rotary Club, Country Club of Ocala, and Elks Club.

He loved flying, horseback riding, thoroughbred breeding and racing. He was an avid fitness enthusiast. He loved traveling with friends and family, and playing golf. Kirby participated and won multiple golf tournaments around the country. Everyone who knew him was aware of his great love of golf and dressing impeccably. He was the definition of a true Southern Gentleman.

Kirby is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sandra (Sitton) Manning; daughter, Leigh "Froggy" Christian Manning (Karl Spitzer); grandchildren, Hunter Fuhr (Lauren), Nicole Legare (Tim), Andrew Spitzer (Joanna); and 7 great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024 at 11am at Grace Episcopal Church, 503 SE Broadway St, Ocala, FL 34471. A celebration of life is to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Grace Episcopal Church in Ocala, Florida or Hospice of Marion County in Florida.