Former Miss America finalist and Miss Mississippi Kathy Manning die at 59 after battle of Covid

Miss Mississippi 1984 winner KATHY Manning has died after battling coronavirus.

The 59-year-old model, who was a former Miss America finalist, died Dec. 23 in Collierville, Tennessee, according to an online obituary.

It is not known if she had been vaccinated against the Covid.

Manning is best known for winning the Miss Mississippi beauty pageant in 1984.

She has also worked as a weather reporter for WHBQ 13, sunscreen model and recording artist.

Manning was Miss America’s second runner-up and a Miss USA semi-finalist.

Her obituary read, “For the many people who knew her, she was someone who enjoyed connecting with people from different walks of life – and really getting to know them for who they are and what brought them joy. “

“She left a mark on almost everyone she met. During her high school, college, and senior years she was known as Mississippi’s Sweetheart.

“And after moving to Memphis, a lot of people saw it as the heart of the city. “

Tributes poured in as news of Manning’s death emerged.

WCCO-TV reporter Esme Murphy wrote: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kathy Manning of Drew MS from Covid.

“Former Miss Mississippi, we worked together at WHBQ-TV in Memphis where she was a weather anchor. She was so sweet and funny, beautiful inside and out. Condolences to his family and loved ones. “

The model is survived by her mother, brother and three children.

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