Obituary of Rubin Manning

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Rubin Cecil Manning announces his sudden passing on June 3, 2026, at the age of 51.

Born in Saint John, New Brunswick, on March 26, 1975, Rubin was the youngest son of the late Bob and Edris (Crawford) Manning. He graduated from Sussex Regional High School in 1994 and spent his life deeply rooted in family, faith, friendship, and the land he loved.

For many, Rubin’s passing feels like the end of the world — or at least the end of an era. He was a dreamer who believed anything was possible, from answers to prayers to draining the swamp. From cattle penning to tearing up the dance floor, he celebrated his parents’ legacy and never lost his devotion to family, farming, and the dairy farm that shaped so much of who he was.

Rubin was nothing short of a miracle in the life of a single mother with three girls, stepping into a role that would grow to include many grandchildren who proudly know him as Grampa Rubin — a title that now comes with the difficult task of explaining that Grampa Rubin is in heaven.

A true cowboy at heart, Rubin lived by a simple but unwavering code: family, friends, and faith first; be true to your word; live with integrity; respect your mama; and protect the people you love. In a world full of sheep and wolves, Rubin was a sheepdog — strong, loyal, fiercely protective, and always looking after those around him.

His strength and work ethic were legendary. From a young age, Rubin built a life around hard work, but he believed just as strongly in enjoying life. From travel and adventure to horse sports, he lived fully and encouraged others to do the same.

Rubin leaves behind an unmatched legacy of devotion to the horse world, the church community, and the people of Sussex — many of whom quickly became family. Rubin had a remarkable gift for storytelling, a unique way of seeing the world, and an ability to make people laugh, often when they needed it most. His personality, heart, smile, and laugh were larger than life.

He had a deep love for animals and the land, and found joy in coon hunting, gardening, skiing, and taking any opportunity to spend time with the people he loved. Loyal to a fault, he built friendships into brotherhoods and left an unforgettable mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Rubin will live on in the hearts of his cherished wife, Karen; his children, Jessica Scott and John of Hillsdale, Allison Boutilier and Anthony of Memramcook, and Vanessa Legere and Colin of Quispamsis; his cherished grandchildren: Valencia, Anderson, Evelynne, Miller, Maddie, Ellie, and Morgan.

He also leaves behind his siblings: Roberta Evans and George of Halifax, Bobby Manning and Charlene of Millbrook, and Robin Manning and Carolyn of Millbrook; his sisters-in-law: Kristina Wood and Phillip of Indiana, Cheryl Gratto and John of Salisbury, and Cindy Giberson and Lance of Florenceville; his mother-in-law, Judy Donovan of Florenceville; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends.

Along with his parents, Rubin was predeceased by his father-in-law, Burton Donovan.

Rubin’s legacy will not be measured by years, but by the countless lives he touched through his loyalty, laughter, faith, and love. Though his boots may rest, the stories, memories, and impact he leaves behind will continue for generations.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, Sussex from where visitation will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026 from 11-1pm. 

A Celebration of Rubin's life will be held from Wallace Community Chapel on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 2pm. 

For those who wish, all are welcome to join the family for their interment in Greenwood Cemetery, Hartland, NB on Monday, June 8, 2026 at 3pm.

Donations in memory of Rubin may be made to the Rubin Manning Resilience Award (a scholarship fund for SRHS Graduates – made payable to the Sussex and Area Community Foundation) would be appreciated by the family. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through wallacefuneralhome.com.