Lydell Wade Manning

Lydell Wade Manning, born on March 15, 1965 passed away on September 8, 2025 at the age of 60.  He lived life to the fullest, never knew a stranger, and loved his family and friends immensely.

Lydell served in the United States Air Force, worked as a counselor, and finished his career as a government contractor supporting the US Marshals.  

Lydell's smile, laughter, and love for a good time was felt by all who knew him.  From family vacations & parties, casino night, ballroom dancing, chess matches, all sports especially his beloved pickleball & Chicago sports teams, Christmas parties, work gatherings, themed parties, and karaoke contests, Lydell was a gatherer of people and a friend to everyone.  He loved all things Jeep, never passed up on a Dr. Pepper or Mountain Dew, loved his Reeses, and believed that when in doubt, put all your chips in to win big! 

Most of all, Lydell was a loving father and grandfather.  He was incredibly proud of his son Logan (& Katelyn Manning), his daughter Lea (& Jordan Becknell), and the families they had created to include his granddaughters Persephone, Malia, and Magnolia, and grandson Kainoa.  They were his greatest treasure and nothing made him happier than time spent with them. 

The light and energy that he brought to this world was one of a kind.  As we remember Lydell, we celebrate a life lived well with eternal optimism, filled with all the laughter, the biggest smiles, and so much love.  Keep flying high, Skydell! 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, September 20th from 2:00-4:00pm at the Veterans Memorial Hall & Museum-211 N Main Street Rockford, Illinois 61101.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Lydell's honor to the LUNGevity Foundation *Please find donation information below