Debra Kay Smith Manning

Debra K. Manning Debra Kay Smith Manning, loving wife, mother and grandmother returned to her Heavenly Father at the age of 64 on Monday, July 29, 2019 after a courageous battle with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST Cancer). She was born October 7, 1954 in Murray, Utah, to Merlin and Kae Talbot Smith. She spent her early life in White Sands, NM and St. David, AZ before finishing her childhood in San Diego, CA. She graduated from Point Loma High School in 1972. While in high school, she found a passion for ballroom dancing that continued into college. She married the love of her life and eternal companion, Roger Manning, on August 18, 1976 in the Logan, Utah temple. Debra continued her education at Brigham Young University where she graduated cum laude with a degree in Communicative Disorders and Elementary Education. She taught preschool for a number of years before continuing her career with the Box Elder School District as a Speech Pathologist and Adaptive Technology Specialist. She loved and cared for each of her students as if they were her own children. Most of all, Debbie loved her family. Her fondest times were with her young children and grandchildren. Debbi...[more]

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as an active and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout her life. She cherished the friendships she made while serving others in numerous callings. Debra is survived by her husband, Roger Manning, and her children: Ryan (Vicky) Manning, Krystal (Ron) Griffin, Matthew (Britney) Manning and Lindsay (Matthew) Braithwaite and her adored 14.75 grandchildren as they brought new energy and love to her life. She is also survived by her parents, Merlin and Kae Smith, five siblings: Kevin (Margaret) Smith, Julie (Gary) Murray, Allen (Tracey) Smith, Kory (Tammy) Smith, and Scott (Maria) Smith. Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 2nd at 2:00 PM at the Brigham City South Stake Center, 865 South 300 West. A viewing will be held Thursday August 1st from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Gillies Funeral Chapel, 634 E 200 South and Friday at 12:30 to 1:30 pm at the Stake Center. Interment will be at the Brigham City Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family through www.gfc-utah.com.