Sandra Character Manasco, age 84, a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, joined her Lord
and Savior on September 26, 2024. Sandra was born on September 24, 1940 in Montgomery, AL
and raised in Gadsden, Alabama. Sandra graduated from Gadsden High School, where she was a
cheerleader, and went on to attend Birmingham Southern College. It was there that she met her
husband of 62 years, Hobby. The couple had two children and lived in Florence, AL briefly
before making their permanent home in Haleyville, Alabama.
Sandra and Hobby have 4 grandchildren who were truly her pride and joy. She cherished being
their “San San” and enjoyed spending quality time with her precious grands. One of her favorite
pastimes was cheering on her grands in their many sports and activities throughout the southeast.
Sandra’s life was dedicated to education and left a tremendous legacy in our educational world
and community. She was such an amazing teacher, friend and leader for the Haleyville City
School System and touched many lives. Sandra taught World History and Spanish and was
beloved by students and faculty alike. She created and nurtured many traditions at Haleyville
High School, including Leo’s Loveliest, Spanish Club and Fiesta, and the local Hugh O’Brien
Youth Leadership Foundation (HOBY). Lovingly known as Mrs. M, she served as the yearbook
sponsor for many years and chaperoned numerous senior trips, as well as spring break trips to
Mexico and Europe. After her retirement from teaching, Sandra was elected to 3 consecutive
terms as a member of the Haleyville City Board of Education, where she was distinguished as
one of 5 statewide to receive the highest honor, All State Status, among board members. Over
the years, Sandra opened her home to a variety of social events, including many bridal teas and
baby showers, and was named a recipient of the Miss Southern Hospitality award for Winston
County.
Among her many talents, Sandra was a gifted soloist and pianist. She was a born performer from
the time she was a little girl and played an integral role in numerous productions throughout the
years. She was a faithful member of the Haleyville Methodist Church Choir. We are sure she
now has that soprano section going in the heavenly choir.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, C.T. and Annie Character, and her brother Jim
Guin (Judy). She is survived by her husband, Hobson (Hobby) Manasco, Jr..; daughter, Shannon
Manasco Reynolds (Greg) of Florence, AL; son, Dr. Tres Hobson Manasco (Michele) of
Fairhope, AL; 4 grandchildren, Grayson Manasco, Ian Reynolds, Ansley Reynolds, and Luke
Manasco; sister, Brenda Vance (Doug); and many dear nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
The family would like to thank Dr. Jerry Harrison and his medical team, the staff of Hendrix
Health and Rehabilitation Center, and Aveanna Hospice (Erica and Savannah) for their loving
care of Sandra in her final days.
Visitation will take place from 1 pm to 3 pm on Saturday, October 5th, 2024. The Celebration of
Life Service will begin at 3 pm at Haleyville Methodist Church. A brief graveside service will
follow at Winston Memorial Cemetery. Pinkard Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Pallbearers will be Ian Reynolds, Luke Manasco, Hunter Manasco, Roger Hayes, Bob Masdon
and Boo Haughton. Honorary pallbearer is James Donahoo.
Memorials may be made in memory of Sandra Manasco to the Haleyville High School
Scholarship Fund or Haleyville Methodist Church.
you may leave online condolences at www.pinkardfh.com
