Peter J. Manning

PORTLAND – Peter J. Manning, 77, of Brighton Avenue, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 6, 2026, at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House.

Born and raised in Portland, Peter was a proud son of the city he loved and served throughout his life. He attended Sacred Heart Grammar School and graduated from Portland High School in 1967, part of what was then the largest graduating class in the school’s history. As a young man, Peter distinguished himself through his dedication and character, earning the rank of Eagle Scout in 1966—the first in his troop since its founding in 1948. He was also awarded the Ad Altare Dei medal, a Roman Catholic scouting honor that reflected his deep and lifelong faith.

Peter continued his education at Ricker College in Houlton, graduating in 1971. During his time there, he was an active member of the Kappa Beta Fraternity and served as its treasurer during his senior year. Peter maintained close friendships with many of his Kappa brothers throughout his lifetime.

A lifelong public servant, Peter was elected to the Maine State House of Representatives in 1980, where he proudly represented Portland for 12 years. During his tenure, he served on the Human Services Committee (formerly Health and Institutions) for all 12 years, including six years as its chair. He also served on the Marine Resources Committee for four years and the Corrections Committee for six years. Peter was a thoughtful and effective legislator, sponsoring more than 100 bills that became law. Among his many accomplishments, he introduced and successfully passed the “Medical Radiation Health and Safety Act” in 1983, raising standards for those authorized to perform x-rays.

Following his time in the legislature, Peter continued his commitment to public service. He played a key role in the development of the Cumberland County Jail, introducing legislation to acquire the land and serving on the building committee through its completion, as well as on the Jail Committee for three years.

Peter’s professional career included work with HRS Maine, an affiliate of Maine Blue Cross Blue Shield, before dedicating 20 years to the Maine Department of Human Services as a Support Enforcement Agent.

Beyond his professional and civic life, Peter was deeply involved in his community and faith. He was a longtime member and past president of the Greater Portland Council of Catholic Men, where he helped organize the group’s annual breakfast for many years. He also served on the board of Saint Joseph the Provider, a thrift shop in Portland’s Old Port. A man of strong faith, Peter was a longtime member of the Sacred Heart Church choir, and in recent years, a member of Our Lady of Hope Parish.

Peter had a deep love for the water and was a longtime member of Centerboard Yacht Club, joining in 1974 and serving as Commodore during the 2000 season. He cherished his time on Casco Bay, first aboard his sailboat Crow’s Nest and more recently on his motorboat, Mar-Sea-Ah.

A lifelong Democrat, Peter took great pride in representing the people of Portland and remained deeply committed to his community throughout his life.

Above all, Peter was a beloved husband, brother, stepfather, and grandfather. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. His stories and his love will live on forever in the hearts of his family and friends.

Peter was predeceased by his parents, Louis and Jeanette Manning; as well as many extended family members.

He is survived by his wife, Jean Manning of Portland; sister, Janine Manning of South Portland; stepdaughter, Allison Kennie and husband Kevin; granddaughter, Nora Kennie; stepson, Jonathan Roods and fiancé Anna Lombard and her children, Haisel and June McGeachey; he is also survived by many extended relatives and friends.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, April 14 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the new Conroy-Tully Walker Cremation, Funeral, and Gathering Center, 300 Allen Ave., Portland. Family and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, April 15 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home for a brief prayer service, followed by an 11 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Pius X Church, 492 Ocean Ave., Portland. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Broadway, South Portland. To view Peter’s memorial page or to share an online condolence, please visit http://www.ConroyTullyWalker.com.

Peter will be remembered for his dedication to public service, his deep faith, and his enduring love for the City of Portland.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the

Maine Cancer Foundation

170 U.S. Route 1, Suite 250

Falmouth, ME 04105 or

Andwell Health Partners Development Office

15 Strawberry Ave.

Lewiston, ME 04240