Edna Fay Manning, born January 15, 1953, in Lake City, Florida, passed away on September 9, 2026, at North Florida Regional Medical Center following an extended illness.

Fay was small in stature, but she had a big personality and an outgoing way about her that people did not soon forget. She was warmhearted and had a giving nature. She had a special knack for making people feel remembered, often giving everyone a nickname of their own and taking joy in keeping up with others by commenting on their Facebook posts. That lively, familiar touch was simply Fay.

She worked at Lake Butler Apparel sewing factory before beginning her career with the Florida Department of Corrections, where she dedicated more than 20 years of service before retiring.

Fay also knew how to enjoy life’s simple and happy moments. She loved watching Westerns, and when she was able, she enjoyed a good yard sale and trips through the thrift stores. Before her health declined, you could often find her sewing and crocheting. She loved bluegrass music and attended several bluegrass festivals throughout the years. She loved to travel, but her favorite way to travel was on a cruise.

Above all, Fay’s family was a treasured part of her life. She is survived by her daughters, Chris Southerland; Julie Crews (John Clark); and Marla (Lester) Miller.

She was a proud Granny to Scott Crews, Ashlyn Crews, Dalton (Mariah) Southerland, Kyle Thornton (Ashley), Tristyn Southerland (D.J. Rogers), Dylan (Lydia) Thornton, Kamryn Southerland, Westyn Miller, and Eastyn Miller; along with her great-grandchildren, Dax, Judah, Wade, Remi, and Jase.

She is also survived by her sisters, Carolyn (Nat) Crews and Barbara Manning; and her brother, Michael (Karen) Manning.

Fay was preceded in death by her father, J.W. Manning; her mother, Irene Manning; her sisters, Geraldine Crews and Rita Manning; her brother, Douglas Manning; and her beloved Shih Tzu, Bunchie.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Archer-Milton Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Crossroads to Victory Church in Lawtey. Fay will be laid to rest immediately following the service at the church cemetery.

Edna Fay Manning will be remembered for her warmth, her wit, her giving heart, and the love she gave so freely to her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.