Freeport – Mildred F. Manning – Perry, 88 originally of Walnut Ridge, AR passed away peacefully at home on June 13, 2025 in Rockford, Illinois. She was born on September 10, 1936 to the late Jeff H. and Cordia (Rushing) Manning in Walnut Ridge, AR.  She married Jesse W. Perry, the father of her five children on September 17, 1955.

Mildred was a devoted and loving mother.  Taking care of her family was always her first priority in life and she did it well.  She did anything and everything to ensure that her children's lives were the best they could be. One of her favorite past-times was to prepare and share a meal with her family. Whether it was home cooked or take out, it didn't matter as long as they were gathered around the table talking, sharing stories, laughing and simply enjoying time together.

Mildred was a hard worker with a strong work ethic. She retired from Ingersoll Milling Machine Co. in Rockford on July 21, 1999. Mildred raised her children in Rockford while she worked at Colorcraft, Reeds Industries, and Pierce Packing. She moved back to Walnut Ridge to care for her ailing parents. During that time she was employed at Skill Corporation in Walnut Ridge. When her parents passed, Mildred returned to Rockford to be near her children and grandchildren.

Mildred is survived by her children, Sandy (Robert) Johnson of Freeport; Jesse Bryan (Deborah) Perry of Rockford; Don (Tammy) Perry of Rockford; David Jeff Perry of Rockford; Linda Perry of Rockford; and honorary daughter Carol (Matthew) Gustafson of Tucson, AZ.  Her sister is Brenda (Bennie) Bogard of Nixa, MO.

Her grandchildren include Becky (Rich) Glenn; Jesse (Ty) Perry; Joshua Perry; Kristina Miller; Nicholas Johnson; Anthony (Kat) Johnson; Nick Crane; Kyle (Rebecca) Crane; Jennifer (Chris) Willey; Jesse (Kayli) Forrest; and Jacob (Mary) Garza.

Her great grandchildren are Abby Glenn; Bella (Isaac) Kepner; Skylar (Ryan) Stoneback; Fallon Perry; William Perry; Matthew Church; Abby Church; Calvin Manning Perry; Moira Perry; Roxy Perry; Tyler Brennan; Callen Willey; Savanna Forrest, Brooklyn Forrest and Hawkins Forest.

Her great great grandson is Jacob Stoneback.

Mildred also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents Jeff and Cordia Manning; sisters, Ellen Smelser and Martha Statler; brothers, Jay and Joe Manning and daughter-in-law, Tammy Kennedy.

There will be a Celebration of Life held on Friday, June 20th at 5:30 pm at the Rockford Church of Christ, 1141 20th Avenue, Rockford, Illinois 61104.

Mildred wanted to be buried near her parents in the family cemetery. She will be laid to rest at the Manning II Cemetery in Walnut Ridge, AR.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Heartland Hospice and all who have supported them during this difficult time.

Condolences can be left for the family at www.walkermortuary.com.