Leon Maness was born April 19, 1936 in McNairy County, TN the son of the late Leonard and Ocal Whitten Maness.
He was united in marriage to Eyvonne Lee on April 23, 1955. Mrs. Maness preceded him in death on January 9, 2012, following 56 years of marriage.
Mr. Maness was a graduate of Bethel Springs High School. After graduation, he served his country in the United States Air Force. Mr. Maness and his wife Eyvonne operated several restaurants in Selmer, including the Dixie Cafe, The ELMs Restaurant (which stood for Eyvonne and Leon Maness), and Country Kitchen. He also worked for Liberty National and Modern Woodmen of America for many years as an insurance agent. Mr. Maness was a faithful member of the Selmer First Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon, and was a member of the Selmer Masonic Lodge. He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching ESPN and following Saint Louis Cardinal Baseball and University of Tennessee Athletics.
Mr. Maness departed this life on November 18, 2014 in Memphis, Tennessee at the age of 78 Years, 6 Months, 30 Days. He is survived by a son, Tim Maness of Memphis, TN; a grandchild, Chloe Maness of Jonesboro, AR; a brother, Joe Dan Maness and wife Barbara of Selmer, TN; and many extended family and friends.
In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Maness was preceded in death by four brothers: Quinn Maness, Raymond Maness, James W. Maness, and Glenn E. Maness.
Memorial contributions in memory of Mr. Maness may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
