Family, friends, acquaintances, mentees and community members gathered Saturday evening July 18 at the intersection of Midway Park and Menard Avenue in Austin to celebrate the life of George Edward Manning II and unveil an honorary street named after him.
Wearing white, more than 50 people showed up to share stories and commemorate a man who had deep connections in the Austin community as well as someone who was committed to service, membership, friendship and worship.
Also there to help with the unveiling was 29th Ward Alderman Chris Taliaferro, who was acquainted with Manning.
“This is the fond memory that I have,” Taliaferro said. “I remember I was invited to a white party; now I’ve gotten a little slimmer since then, but I told Mr. Manning I don’t look good in white, and he said, ‘Come anyway.’ … I literally bought some white, and I showed up, and I kind of looked thinner in white. I really enjoyed my time at his house.”
In 1975, following the death of his father, Manning bought the historic Victorian-style house built in 1891 by architect Frederick Schock. Manning would host elaborate parties at his home, inviting his neighbors and Austin community members to join. He lived in the home with his mother.
“He really cared about the Austin community and the beauty that comes with Austin,” Taliaferro said.
Manning was born Feb. 25, 1949, in Chicago. His parents were George E. Manning Sr. and Jamesia Manning. He was the youngest of two children. He died on Jan. 13, 2025, leaving behind a life filled with a passion for music, education and mentorship.
He was classically trained in piano and violin and would compose music as well. Manning remained actively engaged in education after receiving advanced degrees in piano performance from Roosevelt University and in pedagogy from the University of Chicago, as he had a select group of individuals at University of Illinois Chicago whom he often referred to as his “children.”
Referred to as BUFF(S), Brothers, Uncles, Fathers, Friends and sometimes (Sisters), was a group of approximately 20 individuals who benefited from Manning being a mentor during their time at UIC. They were encouraged to be accountable for their actions and to remember they are not the only ones who are special among God’s creations; everyone is special in their unique way.
“It was never a question on whether we wanted to honor Mr. Manning in this way, but it was just a matter of when. I’m glad we were able to gather on this warm day to celebrate him … celebrate his life, and to celebrate his love for this community,” Taliaferro said.
Emma Bradford is an intern for NEWSWELL CHICAGO through Report for America’s Local News Internship Program.