Gary D Manor

Gary Manor put his beloved Mantis tiller away for the last time on Sunday, November 23, 2025. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Dorothy, and daughter, Sheri Ann—no doubt they were right there waiting on him, probably telling him he left his tools out again.

Born July 29, 1944, to Charles D. and Anna R. (Ellison) Manor in Xenia, Ohio. Gary grew up on a farm on Straley Road in Cedarville with his siblings William, David, Wynona and Juanita who all preceded him in death. The farm is where he learned early that hard work, resourcefulness and good soil could solve just about anything. Over the years he worked as a cook and handyman, but his hands were most at home crafting heirloom clocks and coaxing life out of every seed he could get his hands on.

Gary could grow anything—especially zucchini and flowers! If you lived within a five-mile radius, chances are you were once gifted vegetables you didn’t ask for or flowers you were delighted to receive. His Mantis tiller wasn’t just a tool; it was practically a family member.

Gary loved his family fiercely. He took kids—his own, nieces, nephews, and whoever else hopped on—on rides around the yard on scooters and motorcycles. He would also set up his 8mm camera and projector screen so the whole crew could watch cartoons together.

He also loved Facebook, and everyone knew his political opinions. We’re fairly certain he got kicked off once or twice, but he always found his way back—Gary was nothing if not determined.

Gary married Dorothy in 1971 and together they welcomed Sheri Ann and Charlie. He is survived by his son Charlie, daughter-in-law Regina, and grandson Alex. He also leaves behind a whole host of nieces and nephews who adored him.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM – 12:00 Noon, Monday, December 1, 2025 at Smith Funeral Home, 327 N. South Street, Wilmington, Ohio followed by a funeral service at 12:00 Noon, Monday.  Burial will be in Silver Creek Cemetery, Jamestown, Ohio.

Gary lived simply, loved deeply and gardened passionately. If heaven didn’t have a flower bed before… it does now.

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