Lisa Marie Manley

Lisa Marie Manley, 57, of Decatur, GA passed away on June 22, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born on September 10, 1968, in Newport News, VA. She is survived by the love of her life for 31 years, Melissa Manley, her parents, Teresa and Robert Manley, her brothers, Bobby, Zak, and Seth Manley, and her dear friends and aunts Jo Ann Bryan and Anne Morris.

Lisa had retired after an accomplished career as a Physicist. She had numerous publications, awards, and three patents for her work with the Department of Defense at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Panama City Beach. Beyond her achievements, Lisa was happiest when listening to music and cooking dinner for Melissa. She enjoyed tending to her flowers and had a love for birds as well. She was an avid runner and triathlete. She met the world with warmth, kindness and a generous heart.

To Lisa, you were not just my wife. You were my soulmate, best friend, my rock and my protector. I will always cherish the love we shared – a love that is everlasting and irreplaceable. I’ll spend the rest of my life missing you and advocating for love and kindness every day until I am with you again.

A celebration of life ceremony will be held on Saturday, July 18th at Hidden View Lake Event Center at 900 Co Rd 172, Athens, TN. A celebration service will take place from 2-3PM; guests will be able to share memories and time with Melissa and Lisa’s family after from 3-5PM.

Please contact Debra’s Floral and Gifts in Decatur, TN at 423-334-2041 for floral arrangements to be delivered to the ceremony. If you prefer to make a donation in her honor, friends and loved ones are encouraged to make a gift to the University of Tennessee Physics Department in memory of Lisa. Online gifts can be made at: tiny.utk.edu/give2physics. The online form provides a section to include information on memorial gifts. Memorial Gifts may also be mailed to: 

UT Foundation - Attn: Brian Hardy - 625 Andy Holt Tower, Knoxville, TN 37996

RE: Lisa Manley Memorial Gift

In honor of her memory, Melissa asks everyone to spend meaningful time with their family, letting them know how much they are loved and appreciated. Remember, tomorrow is not promised.