Virginia Lancaster Manning, 86 of Covington, passed away July 1, 2016. Manning was known in the community as a faithful member of Lovejoy United Methodist Church. She served as church secretary of First United Methodist Church, in Covington, from 1977 – 2006. She served both churches with a passion. Her hobbies included needlework and drawing. She was a devoted wife and mother. Manning was born and raised in Bent Mountain, Virginia, where she was valedictorian of her high school class and was chosen May Queen. She and her husband returned annually for family reunions until their later years. She is preceded in death by her husband, Howard Manning; two sons, Jerry Manning, of Covington, and an infant son.

Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Kay Manning of Thomson; daughters and sons-in-law, Martha and Jim Hardman of Covington, Lisa and Jerry Harvey of Springville, Alabama; grandchildren, Kelli and Chad Sherron of McCalla, Alabama, Melissa Hardman of Macon, Patrick Harvey of Carrboro, North Carolina and great-grandchildren, Caroline Sherron and Elijah Harvey.

Services will be graveside at Lovejoy United Methodist Church Cemetery, 12835 Highway 36, in Covington, Tuesday, July 5, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lovejoy United Methodist Church.

Visit caldwellandcowan.com to place condolences or call 770-786-7062.