Diane Manning

Diane Manning passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 5, 2021, in the company of her daughters. Diane, the daughter of Max and Leah Axelrad, was born in Houston, which became her lifelong home. After graduating San Jacinto High School, Diane pursued a degree in education. She started college at University of Houston, then transferred sophomore year to University of Texas, where she pledged Delta Phi Epsilon sorority. She completed her degree and student teaching, and went on to complete a Masters of Education at University of Houston. She then enjoyed several years of teaching elementary students, before meeting her husband, Arthur Manning, of blessed memory. Arthur and Diane enjoyed 23 years together, raising their two daughters and running a photography studio, Work of Art studio. Art was well known as the "go-to" photographer in the Jewish community, but Diane ran the business behind the scenes. She had a sharp mind and a lot of discipline. These qualities served her well after Art passed away. She went on to earn a Licensed Professional Counselor certification and then worked for many years as an elementary school counselor in Spring Branch. Later on, she offered her expertise to her Creative Parenting column in the Jewish Herald Voice. She also published three books on parenting and transitions to continue her legacy: And Baby Makes Three, Are The Golden Years Tarnished?, and Life is Too Complicated...When Do We Start Having Fun? Diane had a love of music, and lent her beautiful alto voice to the Beth Yeshurun choir for many years. She also loved spending time with her children and grandkids. Diane is survived by her beloved daughters: Lauren Salomon and husband Mike, Marla Tiktin and husband Andrew, and grandchildren Analia Salomon, Layla Salomon, Roberto (Robby) Salomon, Aaron Tiktin, Samuel Tiktin, and Leah Tiktin. She is also survived by her brother, Cantor David Axelrad, as well as nieces and nephews. Special thanks to her wonderful caregivers, Felicia Wortham and Wendy Roa, who were always a loving support system for her as well. A funeral will be held on October 8, 2021 at Beth Yeshurun cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Jewish Family Service.

Diane Manning

January 9, 1939 - October 5, 2021