William Manyfield, Sr.

W. C. Manyfield, age 95, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

William Cleophus Manyfield was born on December 12, 1930, in Learned, Mississippi, to Mr. William C. Manyfield and Mrs. Julia Jane Wright Manyfield. He was raised in Edwards, Mississippi, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to family values that guided him throughout his life.

Following the death of his father, William made the selfless decision to leave school after the sixth grade in order to help support his mother. He worked for many years as a farm laborer, contributing financially to his household. Seeking broader opportunities to serve, he later enlisted in the United States military, where he served honorably during the Korean Conflict. He was discharged in 1952.

After completing his military service, William returned to Edwards, Mississippi, where he united Ms. Mattie Lee Thompson. The couple married on October 28, 1954, and relocated to Chicago, Illinois. They added to this union, five girls and one son. In 1957, they returned to Mississippi and made Clinton their permanent residence.

William was a dedicated provider who held numerous jobs throughout his adult life, often working two or more simultaneously to support his family and assist others in his community. His employment included work as a truck driver for The Mill, a janitor for the Clinton Public School District, a neighborhood transportation provider for Head Start children using his personal station wagon, and a truck driver for Clinton Community Christian Center (4C’s). He additionally worked for the University Medical Center as a security guard and later attended the Police Training Academy and became a certified police officer. After full retirement, he returned to work at the State Tax Commission as a security guard. In addition to his formal employment, he operated a lawn care business, and ran his own convenient store, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and tireless work ethic.

Among William’s greatest passions was gardening. He devoted significant time and effort to cultivating his own produce, which he generously shared with family, friends, and neighbors. He was also deeply committed to mentoring others. Even in recent years, individuals sought him out to express gratitude for his guidance, wisdom, and positive influence on their lives.

William was an outspoken Civil Rights activist who courageously advocated for equality within his community. He successfully petitioned the City of Clinton, Mississippi, for equal access to essential public services, including sewer systems and equitable trash collection, ensuring that his neighborhood received the same treatment as others across town. His efforts resulted in meaningful and lasting change.

William Cleophus Manyfield leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Mattie Lee Thompson Manyfield; his children, Lawrence Manyfield, Rosie Taylor, Brenda (Melvin) Williams, Elaine (Floyd) Clark, Darlean (Lanford) Porter, and Debra (J. C.) Johnson; two sisters, Beatrice Peace and Ophelia Hester; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Golena Parker, Charles Manyfield, Benny Lee Manyfield, Thomas Manyfield, Sam Manyfield, and Joe Ed Manyfield; and his sons, William Cleophus Manyfield, Jr., and Douglas Manyfield.