Edward Manning

Gorham – Edward Manning, 81, passed away suddenly at his home on November 11, 2026.

Born in Portland on March 26, 1945, Ed was the son of the late Edward Leo Manning and Mary (Murphy) Manning. He graduated from Cheverus High School in 1963, where he excelled in both basketball and football. A determined competitor throughout his life, Ed carried that same drive and dedication into everything he did. He went on to graduate from Northeastern University in 1968 before serving in the United States Army and the United States Coast Guard Reserves.

Following his military service, Ed married Elizabeth Curran, and together they raised two daughters. They enjoyed summers camping at Brandy Pond and spring vacations in Marco Island with Ed’s siblings and their families.  Ed spent countless hours in the backyard catching his daughter’s softball pitches and playing two on one against them in basketball. Whether in sports, academics, or everyday life, Ed always encouraged his children to recognize their potential, work hard, and never settle for less than their best.

Ed spent his professional career in the insurance industry, working for several companies, including Desmond and Payne, Morse Payson and Noyes, before finishing his career with the Joseph Flaherty Agency and eventually retiring. Alongside his career, Ed dedicated more than 50 years to officiating high school and college basketball. He also officiated field hockey and lacrosse, earning the respect of colleagues, coaches, and players throughout the years.

In March 1991, Ed married Lisa Blais in Portland, Maine, and together they had three children. Family was always at the center of his life. He cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren and took great pride in celebrating their accomplishments. While he was known for setting high expectations, those expectations were always matched with unwavering encouragement and support.

To his six grandchildren, all grandsons, he was affectionately known as Grampy or Grampa. The time he spent with them was among his most treasured moments, and he took great joy in watching them grow.

A true competitor, Ed excelled in nearly every sport he played. His career in insurance also provided plenty of opportunities to spend time on the golf course while building relationships with clients. Along the way, he managed to record three holes-in-one, an accomplishment many golfers spend a lifetime chasing.

Outside of sports, Ed was a devoted New York Yankees fan and enjoyed watching the Boston Celtics and following horse racing. He could occasionally be found at Scarborough Downs enjoying a day at the track. He also took a keen interest in politics and never shied away from a spirited discussion, especially if he thought he could set someone straight.

Ed especially enjoyed spending time in Florida and gathering with family. He will also be remembered for his unmistakable “basketball dance” at family weddings, a signature move that became a memorable part of the celebrations and brought smiles to those around him.

Ed was predeceased by his parents and his brother, John T. Manning.

He is survived by his wife, Lisa Manning; his children, Julie Beyer and her husband Eric, Susan Manning and her husband Kevin Millington, Eddie Manning, Christy Plummer and her husband Brent, and Kevin Manning; and his six grandchildren, Adam and Matthew Beyer, Matthew Millington, Mason and Landon Manning, and Spencer Plummer. He is also survived by his siblings, Donna Sabatino and her husband Carl, Patsy Rodrigue, and Tom Manning and his wife Stefanie; his former wife, Elizabeth Manning; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Visiting hours will be held Tuesday, November 17, from 4–7 p.m. at the new Conroy-Tully Walker Cremation, Funeral and Gathering Center, 300 Allen Avenue, Portland. A funeral service will take place at the funeral home Wednesday, November 18, at 11 a.m., followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery in South Portland.

To view Ed’s memorial page or share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTullyWalker.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Boys & Girls Club or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.