Hoyt Manning Sr.

Obituary For Hoyt Manning Sr.

Hoyt Manning, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, deacon, and distinguished Vietnam veteran, was born on August 23, 1938, in Jamesville, North Carolina, to the late Chloria Murray and the late Charlie Roberson. From infancy, however, he was lovingly raised by his true parents in every sense of the word, the late Garfield and Mary Bell Manning. Under their guidance, Hoyt was taught to be respectful, honest, hardworking, and to always put God first, which were values that shaped the man he would become.

Hoyt entered eternal rest at the age of 87, on Tuesday, January 8, 2026, at the VA Hospital in Bronx, New York. He departed this life leaving his family with the sweet assurance that all was well within his soul.

As a child, Hoyt attended Smithwick Chapel in Williamston, North Carolina, where he confessed Christ as his Lord and Savior. From an early age, he loved God and committed his life to serving Him. Hoyt has also been a faithful member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, New York, NY, since 1987, where he served diligently on the Prayer Band, Sanctuary Choir, Male Chorus, Men’s Club, and Missionary Board. Because of his faithfulness, dedication, and servant’s heart, he was elevated to the position of deacon under the leadership of the late Pastor Adolph Roberts and Reverend Dr. Charles Butler.

Hoyt’s life was marked by discipline, service, and a deep sense of duty. He received his early education at Jamesville Township School in Jamesville, North Carolina, and later attended the historic E. J. Hayes High School in Williamston—one of the Rosenwald Schools established to educate African-American children during a time of limited opportunity. He graduated in 1958.

Answering the call to serve his country, Hoyt enlisted in the United States Army on November 6, 1961, during the Vietnam era. He served honorably for two years as a Light Weapons Infantryman, demonstrating courage, commitment, and pride in uniform. In 1963, he was honorably discharged, having faithfully fulfilled his duty to the nation. His military service stands as a testament to his character, integrity, and willingness to serve others and were qualities that guided his life and legacy.

Following his military service, Hoyt met the love of his life, Sandra Williams Manning. The two were united in Holy Matrimony on November 28, 1964. From this union, they were blessed with four children: Dawnyelle, Charlene, Hoyt, Jr., and Dameion. Hoyt was a beacon of love, strength, and support as both a husband and father.

He instilled in his children the values of compassion, integrity, and perseverance. More than just a father, Hoyt was the foundation, the strength, the ambassador, and the heart of his entire family, both the Manning and Roberson’s side. Soft-hearted and kind, he was always ready to nurture and comfort others. At the same time, he possessed a strength that could move mountains; determined, steadfast, and yes, sometimes stubborn, but always for the right reasons. His strength flowed from his faith, his love, and his deep devotion to God and family.

Hoyt devoted more than 45 years of his life to the profession of taxi driving, through which he built not only a livelihood but a lasting legacy. Over the years, he became an entrepreneur and the proud owner of his own yellow cab, earning the respect of countless passengers and colleagues. Known for his unwavering work ethic and dedication, Hoyt continued driving until his retirement in 2011, closing a long and meaningful chapter of service.

Throughout his life, Hoyt Manning, Sr. exemplified dedication and commitment in every role he was entrusted with; whether serving his country, his church, or his fellow man. He was known for his acts of benevolence and for never meeting a stranger. It was widely known that Hoyt would give his very last dime to help a friend in need. At home and at work, he was a joy to be around and the person everyone turned to. Hoyt lived an extraordinary life, giving his all to his family, his friends, his community, and his country.

Hoyt lived a full, fun-filled Godly life and was loved by so many. He left an indelible mark upon the lives of people he came across. He ran his race and finished it well on January 8, 2026. He was preceded in death by his grandparents that raised him, Garfield and Mary Bell Manning, parents, Chloria Murray and Charlie Roberson, bonus mother, Fannie Roberson; six brothers, James Manning, Sr., Tyrone Roberson, Rudolph Roberson, Octavia Roberson, Authur Jr. Roberson, and C.B. Roberson; ten sisters, Joyce Ann Murray, Louise Duggins, Shirley Powell, Barbara Jean Lowman, Sadie Mae Brown, Ethel Mae Williams, Pocahontas Ghee, Helena Haltom, Fannie Hyman, and Mary Alice Manning; mother-in-law, Jennie Williams; father-in law, William Williams; one daughter in law, Renee Sonya Channer Manning; two sister-in-laws, Diane Roberson and Alice Roberson; five brothers-in-laws, Leon Williams, Sr. Theodis Haltom, Henry Britt, R. J. Duggins, and Homer Ghee.

Hoyt everlasting love to his family will always be cherished and remembered by his loving wife of 61 years, Sandra Manning; two daughters, Dawnyelle Manning of New York, NY, Charlene Groves (Keith) of Norristown, PA; two sons, Hoyt Manning, Jr. of Norristown, PA, Dameion Manning (Jessica) of Royersford, PA; four grandchildren, Timothy Manning, Naomi Groves, Keith Groves, Jr., and Imani Groves; four sisters, O’dell Britt of Inglewood, California, Delsie Williams ((Willis)of Jamesville, NC, Joyce McCrary and Glenda Barnes of Parmele, NC; seven brothers, Shelbert Manning (Honora) of Jamesville, NC, Willie Garfield Manning (Marion) of Plymouth, NC, Felmon Murray, of Albany, New York, Sylvester Murray of NewYork, NY, Clinton Roberson, McCoy Roberson (Doris) and McKinley Roberson, all of Parmele, NC; three sister-in laws, Shirley Manning of New York, Louise Easter of Philadelphia, PA, and Sheila Roberson of Williamston, NC; one brother-in-law, William Powell of Parmele, NC; one Godson, Leon Williams, Jr.; one bonus daughter, April Thomas of Bronx, NY; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO UNCLE SYLVESTER:

A very special thank you to our Uncle Sylvester. Words cannot fully express how grateful we are for your constant presence, unwavering support, and genuine compassion. The love, patience, and care you showed to our father and our mother meant more to us than we can ever say. You were a true source of strength during this journey, and our family will forever hold your kindness close to our hearts.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO COUSIN LEON:

We also extend our sincere and heartfelt thanks to our Cousin Leon. During our father’s health challenges, when his children lived too far away to be there each day, you faithfully stood by his side throughout his hospital stays. Your presence brought comfort to our father and peace of mind to our family. We will always be deeply grateful for your love, dedication, and selfless care.

To the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Family

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church family for being such a meaningful part of our father’s life and heart. Your love, faithfulness, and fellowship meant the world to him and continue to bring comfort and strength to our family. May God richly bless each of you for the care and compassion you have shown.

Repass:

Immediately following the service in the church fellowship hall at: Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, 231 W. 142nd Street, New York, NY 10030.

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