Jessica Fears Manning

Sarah Jessica Fears Manning, 85, passed away surrounded by her loved ones on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 10:00 until 12:00 p.m. at Mayes Ward Dobbins Funeral Home in Marietta. A family Graveside service will be held following visitation. Jessica, or Jess, as many knew her, is survived by her best friend and husband of 65 years, James Manning; two daughters, Dana Day and her husband, Marshal, Ashley Dorsey and her husband, Robert; four granddaughters, Sarah Driskell, Sydney Dorsey, Samantha Briggs (Daniel), and Kellyn Mitchell (Maddux); two great grandchildren, Ashlynn and Easton Driskell and two more on the way that she was so excited to meet. Jessica is also survived by her sister, Phyllis Smith and brother, Baldwin Fears; and many nieces and nephews. Jess was a woman who lived life with grit, heart, and an unmatched sense of purpose. A proud graduate of her high school’s senior class—where she was voted “Most Intelligent”—Jess carried that sharp wit with her throughout her life. Whether she was solving life’s everyday problems or sharing her opinion (which she always had, and often proudly), she did it with confidence and love. A true hard worker, she devoted her life to taking care of others. Many in Marietta can thank her for her many years working as a Dental Hygienist. She found joy in the simple pleasures—digging in her vegetable garden, cooking up meals that made sure no one ever left hungry, and settling in with a good book. She had a special gift for turning ordinary days into something memorable, often with a warm plate and a bit of her famous wisdom. Jess loved to chat—especially about the latest news, gossip, or happenings in town. Her conversations were never dull and always came with a laugh or two. Her love for animals was just as strong; her barn cats and inside cats were spoiled with affection. Her most recent companion, Buddy, rarely left her lap, a quiet testament to her comforting presence. She had the biggest heart, but she wasn’t one to sugarcoat things. Jess was as stubborn as a mule and just as loyal. She spoke her mind, stood her ground, and then turned around and loved you just the same. Her famous phrase, “I’ve been thinking…,” usually meant a call full of her thoughts, theories, or advice—whether you asked for it or not! Her daughters and granddaughters knew the moment those words were spoken, they were in for one of Jess’s classic conversations—often insightful, occasionally outrageous, and always unforgettable. We’re not quite sure how we’ll carry on without her telling us how to do things. But in every meal we make, every garden we plant, every stray cat we feed, and every story we share—we’ll carry a piece of Jess with us. Her love, strength, and sass will be deeply missed, but forever cherished. Contributions can be made in loving memory of Jess to any animal shelter or pet rescue—causes close to her heart. Her love and care for animals, especially her beloved cats, was a lifelong passion.

Jessica Fears Manning

March 7, 1940 - June 17, 2025