Crystal Manning

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Crystal Manning, who departed this life on December 26, 2025, at the age of 38. Crystal was dearly cherished by her family and friends, and her memory will forever remain in their hearts.

Crystal was born on January 23, 1987, at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. She was a true daddy’s girl and treasured the time she spent with her father hunting, fishing, and playing catch during her childhood. Many fond memories were also made fishing with her grandparents at Lake Ponderosa, where she enjoyed catching crappie, bass, and catfish.

Crystal was athletic and competitive. She played baseball in Fort Des Moines Little League, proudly saying she “made the boys cry” because she was so good. She also played softball and volleyball during her junior high years. Above all, Crystal deeply loved her dogs, Chloe and Peaches, who brought her comfort and companionship.

At the age of seven, Crystal was diagnosed with diabetes, which significantly impacted her health throughout her life, especially during her teenage years. She endured heart attacks and mini strokes later in life.  Crystal also faced struggles with addiction and spent time in and out of treatment. After her final treatment, she remained sober. She was courageous and open about her journey, often sharing that her struggles led her to know the Lord, who gave her peace in the final chapter of her life.

Crystal is survived by her loving father, Michael Manning (Marion Valero Lehman); mother, Cindra (Steve) Swanson; brother, Michael (Carolyn) Manning Jr.; niece, Grace Manning; nephew, Noah Manning; as well as several aunts, uncles, and numerous friends.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Keith and Anna Manning, Morton and Arvella Machir; her uncle, Steven Machir; and her cousin, Jacob Keith Manning.

Crystal’s family will greet friends on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 7601 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, Iowa, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the lasting legacy Crystal leaves behind. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m., with interment at Sunset Gardens.

The service will be live streamed: https://player.vimeo.com/video/1149560975   Following the service the link will become a recording.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to JDRF in Crystal’s memory.

Crystal will be forever remembered, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.