Carolyn Ann Manning, 78 of Nevada, died Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at Story County Medical Center. Carolyn was born March 4, 1944, in Albia, Iowa the daughter of John "Rodger" and Anna (Gray) Carlson. She grew up on the family farm, where she was involved in 4-H, which was composed of only girls. She was named outstanding girl in Monroe County and received a Cedar Chest award, along with many other honors during her years in 4-H. She credited 4-H with establishing in her the basics of leadership, citizenship, and taking charge of your own life. She graduated valedictorian from Albia High School in 1962. She then attended Iowa State University and graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics Education. Carolyn began working with ISU extension in 1966 as Home Economist and served multiple counties in Iowa including Story, Greene, and Boone. She returned to Iowa State University and earned a Master of Science in Family Environment in 1980. Carolyn became the Story County Area Extension Director in 1994 and retired in 2001 after over 35 years of service. After retirement, Carolyn served as the chair of the Story County 4-H Foundation fundraising for scholarships and various educational opportunities for youth. On June 30, 1973, she married Ralph Manning at the First Presbyterian Church in Missouri Valley, Iowa. Ralph and Carolyn were blessed with nearly 49 years of love and marriage. Together they were partners in life and faith. She had two stepchildren, Debra and David. She became involved in many community organizations; Heartland Senior Services, United Way board, Story County 4-H Foundation committee chair, PEO chapter officer, and Rotary of Nevada. Both Carolyn and Ralph were inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame in 2006. Carolyn had a life-long heart for service and teaching others. She enjoyed reading, quilting, traveling, and tending to her flower gardens. After retirement, both Carolyn and Ralph combined their love of gardening and desire to serve by becoming ISU Extension Master Gardeners. Carolyn and Ralph attended Christ Community Church in Ames. She taught Sunday school for twenty years and served as a financial secretary. Carolyn is survived by her husband, her children; David (Patricia) Manning of Orchard Park, New York and Debra Manning of Mesa, Arizona; two grandchildren, Benjamin, and Kathryn Manning. She was preceded in death by her parents and her two brothers. A visitation will be 10:00-11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 11, 2022, at Christ Community Church (5501 George W Carver Ave) in Ames. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Pastors Kyle Bartholic and Mark Henderson officiating. Burial at 1:30 p.m. will follow at Nevada Municipal Cemetery in Nevada, Iowa. A livestream of Carolyn's service can be viewed at https://livestream.com/theplex/carolyn Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada is handling arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.rasmussonfh.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Story County 4-H Foundation or Christ Community Church.