Thomas Peter Manning (Tom) passed away in Boca Raton Regional Hospital after a brief hospitalization on December 30, 2017. His beloved girlfriend Ellen Yeagle of Boca Raton, FL and his sister Sandra Waldo of Hebron, CT were at his side. Tom was the son of Thomas and Mary Manning (Palpini) both deceased. He was born on October 15, 1944 in Springfield, MA. Tom is survived by two other siblings, Richard Manning of East Hampton, MA, and Marylou Allen of the United Kingdom as well as his son Robb Manning of Brattleboro, VT.

Some of Tom’s happiest moments were spent communing with nature be it paddling on Vermont waters observing Eagles or watching Pelicans fish the beaches of Boca Raton. Another passion he and Ellen shared were cheering on the Patriots and Red Sox. Just prior to hospital admission they shared a victorious Patriots evening together.

Tom lived in Brattleboro and worked at the Brattleboro Retreat for over 25 years, working closely with alcoholics and addicts. His insight and expertise helped many regain healthy and recovering lives. Another contribution he made in his professional life was to help create the Uniformed Service Program (the treatment program for early responders, for veterans, firefighters, police etc.). He was an active and loved member of AA, sharing his 35 years of recovery, experience and hope with those that needed it… he touched many lives and will surely be missed.

Tom served his country in Vietnam as a member of the Marine Corps and was awarded a Purple Heart during service. As many others, Tom joined the Vietnam Veterans Against the War after his return to the states. Deeply compassionate with his service peers he volunteered to work with homeless veterans finding homes and other support for them.

A celebration of life gathering will be held on January 27, 2018 at the Saturday Night Live AA meeting. Pot luck at 6PM with an Open AA meeting at 7PM with sharing from those that knew and loved Tom. Please join us at the First United Methodist Church Putney Road Brattleboro, VT.
A military burial ceremony is planned at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph, Vermont in the Spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Turning Point 39 Elm Street Brattleboro, VT 05301 (802) 257 5600.
For more information, please contact Michael B. at (802) 579 8923.