Donna (Betti) Manning

Donna L. (Betti) Manning, 80, formerly of Holden, Southborough and Marlboro passed away Tuesday, November 7th, 2023. She is welcomed into heaven by the love of her life and husband of 57 years, John P. Manning, Jr. who passed away on the same day November 7th, 2019. Donna was born in Marlborough, on November 5th1943, one of three children of Attilio and Lorraine (Williams) Betti. She was raised in Marlborough and graduated from St Anne’s Academy. On June 9,1962, Donna married the man who became the Love of her life and partner for the next 57 years, John P. Manning, Jr. They enjoyed life raising their family with faith, family, love and devotion in Marlborough, Southborough, and Holden. They also wintered in Delray Beach Florida for 15 years. Donna had a passion for antiques, she owned and operated her own antique business, “Once upon a time.” She also worked as a sales rep for Filenes and later Macy’s before retiring. Donna is survived by the family she loved, John Patrick Manning III of Cambridge, Deborah Baptiste, her husband Don and their children, Kathryn and Lindsay of Scottsdale, AZ, Elizabeth “Beth” Donaghy, her husband James and their children, Paige and Brooke of Holden; a brother, Paul Betti of Marlborough, sister, Marsha Murphy of Wareham, several nieces, nephews, God Children and extended family members. Donna was a former active member, and president of the catholic women’s club of St Anne’s Church in Southborough. In later years she was active on the Social Committees in her condo associations in both Holden and Delray Beach. She loved planning social events in Delray beach ranging from Superbowl parties to St Patrick’s Day celebrations.” Her favorite moments in life were those spent with her four Granddaughters who lovingly called her “Mimi”. Special memories with the four girls include days spent on the beach in Delray and spoiling them with American Girl Dolls under the Christmas tree. Other hobbies that Donna loved include shopping, lunching with friends, the holidays, special occasions and anytime her family could be with her. She enjoyed reunions with her friends from St Anne’s academy and her special relationships with her lifelong childhood friends. She, along with John, enjoyed attending classic cars shows, 50’s and 60’s music but most especially she loved entertaining in the home. Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Sunday, November 12th from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St, Worcester, MA 01605. Her funeral service will be held, Monday, November 13th departing in procession from the funeral home at 10:00 am to St Matthias Church, 409 Hemenway St. Marlborough, where her Celebration of Christian Burial mass will be held at 11:00 am. Burial alongside John will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Marlborough. In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in her name can be made to the Susan G. Komen, 200 Friberg Pkwy Ste 3020, Westborough, Ma 01581.