Joseph Donald Manning

Joseph Donald Manning, known by many as Coach Manning or Joe-Joe-the Tennis Pro, died on June 30, 2026. He was born in Pennsylvania on June 3, 1952. He lived in Succassunna, New Jersey until he moved to Arkadelphia, Arkansas to attend college.

Joe is proceeded in death by his grandson, Cooper Joseph Manning, his parents Don and Betty Manning and brothers Dan Manning and Mike Manning.

Joe is survived by his son, Joseph Daniel Manning, sisters, Marcia (Bob), Donna (Hugh) and Susan (Charles) and brothers Jim (Jill), Bill, and Matt (Yvonne). He had many nieces, nephews and a very special companion, Max, his dog.

Joe was educated at Henderson State University where he received his teaching degree. He was employed at Camden High School as a Civics teacher and tennis coach for the boys and girls teams. He left Camden and went to teach in Liberty, Texas at the high school. He coached the tennis team there as well. He lived in Longview, Texas for the last three years.

There was a place in the Pocono Mountains that captured Joe's heart. It was called Camp Cayuga and he spent 19 summers teaching tennis as the Director of Tennis. He made many friends that were special to him while there.

Joe was an accomplished tennis player and played a game as sharp as his wit!! He enjoyed politics, golf, the company of others, and especially enjoyed spending time with Daniel. He loved teaching and coaching others, as he had his own way of doing so that was unique to everyone he interacted with.

The Manning family would like to say a special “Thank You” to the people at the Springs of Camden and Arbor House Hospice for the care and concern they showed for Joe while he was there.

A memorial service will be held on August 8, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am and the service will be at 11:00 am in the Chapel at Proctor Funeral Home in Camden, Arkansas.

If you choose to make a donation in Joe's name, please send it to Ouachita County Animal Protection Society in Camden, Arkansas.