Bettie Corinne Manning

Until the early morning of January 7, 2023, our beloved mother, Bettie Corinne Manning graced this world with a spirit so fierce but full of endless love. Her journey of a lifetime began on May 25, 1955 and what a journey she lived in 67 years. She was born in Chicago, Il. to Alma (Manning) Jones - Long and Jewel Copeland. She would soon move to Indianapolis, IN and  become the eldest of four beautiful sisters.

 During her time at Harshman School (PS 101) and Arsenal Technical High School she became known to many as smart, helpful and stranger to none. She went on to attend her beloved Fisk University in Nashville, TN where she chose a major in Healthcare Administration and Planning. It was at Fisk University where she began to blaze her trail as a spirited, opinionated and an undoubtedly kind young woman whom many now cherish as family.

 Her smile captivated all who knew her which then lit the path for her to share endless stories or advice about life and how to keep pushing no matter what. Her journey, though not easy, never seemed to waver her spirit. In all things she acted confidently, trusting God would make a way. He did just that on September 10, 1988 as she and James R. Oglesby, Jr. welcomed her treasured first-born, Alma J. Z. Manning and again on August 17, 1989 as she welcomed the last of her earthly treasures, Amber C. Z. Manning.  

Many witnessed her amazing journey of motherhood, consisting of sleepless nights, PTA meetings, flute lessons, band concerts and chili suppers, award ceremonies, Saving Our Daughters meetings, ballet training, Nutcracker weekends and graduations. An unfathomable path for some when also considering her commitment to Metro Nashville Public Schools (Glencliff High School, Cohn School and the Tennessee Board of Education) and Mt. Zion Baptist Church (Wedding Ministry and Saving Our Daughters).

 She loved nothing more than being a mother and sharing life with her family and friends. Her love and excitement for life was evident in the way she cared for others, which extended to her children’s friends and even their children.  She was a lover of books, sound teachings and the advancement of education. To be the manifestation of her life lessons, triumphs and love is a priceless gratitude that goes beyond any words this earth could ever possess. The legacy of Bettie Corinne Manning will thrive as her roots in this earth run deep in good ground. 

 Mama, we appreciate you and love you! Until we meet again my girl… 

Preceded in Death by: Charles Manning (uncle), Katie Bell (aunt), Jithana Bell (cousin), Dwan Jones and Richard Wilson (nephews). 

Survived by: Alma Jones Long- mother, Alma Manning- daughter, Amber Manning-Givens- daughter (Micah Givens and Baby Givens), James R. Oglesby Jr.- childrens’ father, Earlene Hines- sister (Tyrone Hines- 3 nephews), Karen Glover- sister (Tony Glover- 2 nieces), Sherrie Boyd- sister (Fred Boyd- 2 nephews), Cherrie Jones- sister (3 nieces), Theresa Wilson- cousin-sister (2 nephews and 1 niece) and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews and many deeply cherished and abiding friendships.