Robert Everett Manning, passed away peacefully at his home in Saint Louis, Missouri, on May 16, 2026, at the age of 90. He was the devoted husband of Suellen Teresa (Healy) Manning - the love of his life and his partner of nearly 63 years - who preceded him in death on April 18, 2026. Together, Robert and Suellen built a life defined by deep love, unwavering commitment to family, and a shared joy in all that life had to offer. Their bond was the cornerstone of everything he held dear, and he carried her with him to the very end.

Robert was also preceded in death by his beloved son, Michael James Manning (Monica), who passed away from cancer three years ago at the age of 55, as well as by his parents, Dorthea and Everett Manning, and his two brothers, Bruce and Judson.

He is survived by his loving children: Robert Manning Jr., Julie Manning Boxley (Abney), Kevin Manning, Daisy Manning, and Benjamin Manning; and his cherished grandchildren: Thomas and Josephine Manning, Bonnie Jean Manning, and Sallie, Charlie, Joe, Sam, and Buck Boxley.

Above all else, Robert was a family man. His devotion to his children and grandchildren was the defining measure of his life, and he found his greatest happiness and purpose in their presence. Among his most treasured traditions was heading to the golf course on weekends, where he delighted in playing alongside his children, grandchildren, and friends. Discovering an innate talent for golf later in life, those days in the sunshine enjoying comradery and good-natured rivalry were among his most cherished.

Robert was a brilliant man, and that brilliance defined a distinguished career as a chemist in the pharmaceutical industry. He attended Brown University and later the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where, in one of life's most fortunate turns, he met Suellen, and their decades of life together began. As a young couple, they lived near New York City and spent many weekends attending the ballet, the symphony, Broadway performances, and dinners at their favorite restaurants. In 1984, they relocated to Saint Louis, where they created a beautiful home and garden and spent many happy days with their children and grandchildren at the botanical gardens, the zoo, and their beloved swimming pool. Robert was not often thought of as a "softie," but his dogs were the standing exception - he was especially fond of his pugs, Mei Ling and Mei Xui, who were frequently treated to choice morsels from his dinner plate.

As a scientist, Robert was immensely respected by his colleagues. He brought remarkable creativity and innovation to pharmaceutical research, and many of his ideas live on in medical treatments today. A master at navigating complex biological and chemical scenarios, he made a lasting and meaningful impact in his field, dedicating countless hours and original thinking to the advancement of science.

Beyond the laboratory, Robert was a man of deeply rooted, homegrown sensibilities. He grew up on a farm in Paramus, New Jersey, where he cultivated a lifelong passion for gardening - growing both vegetables and flowers - a love he carried with him always. He was also a gifted pianist who found particular joy in playing Chopin. As his career began to wind down, he turned his precise and creative mind to the kitchen and became an extraordinary cook. An athlete at heart, he introduced his family to skiing, tennis, and golf, and he treasured the summers the family spent together at the beach in Long Beach, New Jersey, and Wilmington, North Carolina.

Robert was a man of few words, but when he spoke, people listened - for they knew his words would be insightful, important, or often hilariously unexpected. He possessed a wit unlike any other. He is remembered and deeply loved for his quiet strength, his extraordinary dedication, and the immeasurable effort he devoted to his career, to Suellen, and to his family. His legacy is one of brilliance, devotion, and a life very well lived.

As a service of the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.