Weldon L. Manley, Jr.

Weldon (Sonny) Manley Jr., age 53, entered his heavenly home on June 22, 2023 in Gretna, Nebraska. He was born on January 17, 1970 to Weldon Sr. and Sharon Manley in Lincoln, Nebraska. Sonny attended school in Lincoln and graduated from Northeast High School in 1988. He attended Southeast Community College-Milford and earned his associates degree in Computer Programming. Most recently, Sonny worked as a database developer for Sandhills Global.   

Sonny’s life revolved around his family. He is survived by his wife Jessica Manley. They were married on October 12, 2013 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Gretna. Their time together meant everything, supporting each other through life’s ups and downs. Treasured memories include traveling, sports and evening chats on the front porch together. He cherished his role as step-father to Ben and Abbie Zavadil and loved them deeply. Sonny spent years coaching Ben’s Gretna Thunder baseball team and loved every minute he could connect with and mentor his players. He took great pride in supporting Ben and Abbie’s activities, whether it was rushing from work to tennis matches or traveling for softball and baseball tournaments. Cheering on their teams and watching them grow brought great joy to his life.  

Sonny was a beloved son. His memory will forever live on in the heart of his father, Weldon Sr. He is preceded in death by his mother, Sharon Manley. Her passing was a tremendous loss for the entire family and they have found solace in knowing Sonny and Sharon are together, reunited with Christ. Sonny shared a special bond with his brother, Mark Snook. They enjoyed many hobbies together including racing, woodworking and Husker sports, creating countless cherished memories. Sonny leaves behind his sisters: Marti Manley, Carri Fitzgerald, Lori Harris (Dave), Jodi Gates (Russ).  In addition he leaves behind his father-in-law Ray Woodward (Nancy), mother-in-law Nancy Woodward and brothers-in-law:  Adam Woodward, Nicholas Woodward (Maria) and Joe Woodward.  Sonny also leaves numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He held a special place in each of their hearts and their lives were enriched by his infectious laughter, warm smile and compassionate nature.  

Along with a love of family, Sonny touched the lives of numerous friends, colleagues and community members. He was known for his kind heart, willingness to lend a helping hand, and his genuine interest in the well-being of others. He challenged others to grow and accepted that challenge for himself. When one of the neighbors said, “I’ve got a guy for that,” they were often referring to Sonny. He enjoyed neighborhood firepit evenings with our Quarry Lane family and competing for the best yard around.

Visitation will be held June 29th from 5-7pm at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Gretna, 11204 S. 204th Street. A celebration of life service will be held on Friday June 30th at 10:30am, with a luncheon following also at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Gretna. In honor of Sonny’s giving spirit, memorials are being planned for a local scholarship to be designated in the near future.  

The Manley family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the support, love and condolences received during this difficult time. Sonny was our shining light and his memory will forever be etched in our hearts. His legacy will inspire us to live life with the same faith, joy and compassion that he demonstrated to us every day.