Obituaries

Billy Ray Manning, 77, of Dry Ridge, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, surrounded by his children.

Born on Christmas Day in 1948 in Falmouth, Kentucky, Billy was the son of the late Wanda “Chi” Carlisle and Milford Russell Manning.

A young man who started with little but dreamed big, Billy became an entrepreneur in every sense of the word. Over the years, he built and operated a variety of successful businesses, including A-1 Pawn, Molly’s, Chics, The Taylor Mill Inn, The Z Bar, Manning Maintenance, a carpet store, and even a game room. Of all his ventures, his greatest pride and success was La Madame’s. Billy knew people from all walks of life, never hesitating to lend a hand—especially to the underdog.

Known for his sharp style and larger-than-life personality, Billy loved Lincoln Town cars, fast cars, race cars, and spending time with his best friend, Johnny. He cherished the warmth of the Florida sun and the peacefulness of sandy beaches.

In his later years, Billy found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved playing his guitar, singing songs for the kids, sharing good conversations over a cup of coffee with his brother Rusty and nephew, and telling stories that kept everyone listening. He lived fully, accomplished much, and always did things his own way.

Billy was, at heart, a mama’s boy, a fierce protector, and a devoted provider. Above all else, his greatest love was his family—especially his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Jason Manning, his brothers, Eddie Manning, David Manning, and Dennis Manning and his grandparents, Taylor Manning and Mollie Wayland and Harvey and Mattie Carlisle.

He is survived by his sons, Billy Manning Jr. and William Conner; his daughters, Lisa (Rickey) Ort, Glenda (Jeremy) Luman, Molly (Chris) Carter, and Madison Manning; and a large and loving family of grandchildren: Rickey Ort, Jr., Zachary (Trystyn Powell) Ort Sr., Kodey (Katie) Ort, Kennadee (Noah) Lee, Billy Ort, Kyle Conner, Gunner Conner, Ivan Luman, Aden Luman, Presley Manning, Isaiah McElroy, Eli McElroy, Cali Manning, Luke Carter, and Ashton Wade.

He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Zachary Ort Jr., Jaxson Ort, Ella Lee, and Emmy “Lou” Byrd; his brothers, Rusty (Shirley) Manning and Paul Manning; his sisters, Melody "Suzie" (Rick “Eye”) Brewer, Harriet “Sissy” (Don) Guinn, and Candy “Nan” Cleveland; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends who will miss him dearly.

His family would like to thank Hospice and especially his nurse Ginger.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at 12200 Chandler Drive, Walton, KY 41094.