Don William Manning

Don William Manning was born on April 12, 1930, to Delles and Mabel Moon Manning in a small pioneer home in Farmington, Utah. He passed away peacefully at home on July 3, 2026, at the age of 96, surrounded by loved ones.

Don lived a long and fulfilling life.

In ninth grade, his family moved to Hermiston, Oregon, where he attended high school for three years. They later returned to Farmington due to his mother's health, and he finished his senior year at Davis High School.

After high school, Don served one year of active duty in the United States Navy, followed by six years of inactive duty. He was then called to serve in the South African Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, an experience he cherished and often spoke about.

While serving in South Africa, he played catcher on the missionary baseball team.

He married his eternal companion and sweetheart, Rhea Slade, on April 29, 1953, in the Salt Lake Temple. They shared more than 73 years together.

Following their marriage, Don attended Weber State University and the University of Utah.

Don and Rhea began their married life in the pioneer home where he was born. As their family grew, they built a larger home nearby, where they raised their six children-five sons and one beloved daughter.

Don worked at various jobs before beginning his career at the University of Utah where he retired in 1991.

Don served on the Farmington City Council for four years. Don and Rhea were honored to serve as Grand Marshals of the Farmington Parade.

He was blessed to live in a close-knit community of family and lifelong friends, sharing many activities such as hunting, camping, and fishing. Don enjoyed playing baseball with the Davis County league teams, watching college football, and, most of all, spending time with family.

Don had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh.

He and Rhea later served as service missionaries in the Ogden Cannery, as summer missionaries at Cherry Hill Campground, and as temple workers in the Bountiful Utah Temple. Throughout his life, Don served faithfully in many church callings.

Don was humble, hardworking, and generous-a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His quiet example and steady faith will be remembered by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Delles and Mabel Moon Manning; his brother, Merrill; and many other loved ones.

He is survived by his wife, Rhea Manning; their children: Rodney (Cheryl), Lisa (Rex) Burgener, Phil (Joann), Boyd (Kathleen), Garth (Tina), Carl (Nicole), and 22 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.

Don was cared for with love, patience, compassion, and tireless devotion by his loving wife, Rhea. She has set an example of Christ-like love to her family. Her unwavering dedication and selfless care were a blessing to Don and an inspiration to all who know her.

The family extends their gratitude to Carly from Canyon Home Care and Hospice for her exceptional care of Don.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at:

Russon Mortuary

1941 N. Main St.

Farmington, Utah 84025

There will be a viewing on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at:

The LDS Stake Center at 729 Shepard Lane

Farmington, Utah 84025

Interment will be at the Farmington Cemetery.