Richard Earl Manley

Richard E. Manley, of Dickson, died near his home on April 21, 2026, a few days after celebrating his 78th birthday. A graduate of Dickson High School, Richard became a man of many trades. Beginning with a single paper route in his teens, he eventually managed newspaper distribution throughout all of Dickson County. He later transitioned to small engine and automotive repair, followed by over 20 years driving semi-trucks across the country and locally. Richard claimed to retire in his 50s but soon began repairing lawn equipment out of his garage. Family suspected this allowed him to mow the grass every day under the guise of testing his work. As a self-taught hobbyist, he learned to build and repair computers in his 70s. His mechanical mind remained sharp and intentional.

Richard was reserved, but he had a memorable sense of humor once he started talking. He could be rough around the edges, yet he had a good heart when it mattered. He did not want others to suffer. Even in his final days, he demonstrated love and compassion in his own way.

Richard is survived by his wife of 52 years, Patricia Perkins Manley; his daughter Amanda Manley Cook (Jacob); grandchildren Sophia and Joshua Cook; honorary daughter Chelsa Johnson Cathey; sisters Marie Seay-Cargile, Linda James, and Sheila Morgan; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Frank Cecil Manley and Sarah Hickman Manley Kimbro and his brother Tommy Ray Manley.

Richard wished to be cremated. His family will have a private service in May. In lieu of flowers, they request donations to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org), the TN Chapter of Be SMART for Kids (give.everytownsupportfund.org/TN2026), The Quest Center (qcdickson.org), or the Dolly Parton Imagination Library Affiliate in Dickson (imaginationlibrary.com/usa/affiliate/TNDICKSON).