Wilton Eugene Manley

Wilton Eugene Manley, 82, passed away on March 19, 2025, with his beloved wife, Penny, by his side. Visitation will be held at Cox-Rowley Funeral Home at 4180 Canyon Dr. Amarillo, TX, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm on Sunday, March 23rd. A celebration of Wilton’s life will be 10:00 AM Monday, March 24th, at Khiva Shriners Lodge at 305 SE Fifth Ave in Amarillo, followed by a graveside service at Dreamland Cemetery in Canyon, TX.

Born on December 24, 1942, in Idalou, Texas, Wilton was the youngest of five children born to GW and Mary Ruth Manley. He was preceded in death by his parents, his infant son Gregory Eugene Manley, and his brothers Joel, Marvin, and Leon Manley.

Wilton is survived by his wife, Penny Manley; his three sons, Todd Manley (Lyn), David Manley (Natascha), and Jeff Manley (Emily); one daughter Jill Gregg (Coy) as well as Penny’s children, Tammy Ennis (David) and Dustin Watson (Melanie). He leaves behind nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, as well as Penny’s five grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Marie Manley, the mother of his four children; his sister, Lenora Teaft and many nieces and nephews.

A standout athlete, Wilton excelled in football at Abernathy High School before continuing his career at West Texas State University, where he played defensive tackle. His talent and dedication led him to pursue professional football, playing for the Dallas Cowboys before moving on to the Canadian Football League and later Florida.

After his football career, Wilton transitioned into a new chapter, settling with his family in Canyon, TX, and working at Asarco for 25 years before retiring. Though his playing days ended, his love for the game remained strong—he spent over 30 years as a football referee in the Texas Association of Sports Officials, Amarillo Chapter, officiating at both the college and high school levels.

Wilton was a veteran and joined the Army in 1965. In 1971, he transitioned to the Texas National Guard, where he retired after 20 years as a Sergeant 1st class.

Wilton was also an active and devoted member of the Shriners in Amarillo, where he dedicated his time to helping others. In retirement, he found joy in travel, making new friends, and spending time with family. An avid golfer, he especially cherished playing rounds with his sons and close friends.

In December 2018, Wilton married Penny, and together they embraced life’s adventures, traveling, playing games, and visiting their children and grandchildren. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for family and friends will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Khiva Shrine Travel Fund in his honor. Donations can be mailed to 305 SE 5th St. Amarillo, TX 79101.