John P. Manning III

The world became a little dimmer and considerably less fabulous on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, when John Patrick Manning, III, 58, of Cambridge (formerly of Southborough), had his final beauty rest and passed away peacefully in his sleep. 

Born in Boston, John was the only son of the late John P. Manning Jr. and Donna L. (Betti) Manning. Raised and educated in Southborough, he graduated from Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School with a focus in commercial art which was an early glimpse of the creativity that would guide his life. He later earned his degree in cosmetology from Rob Roy Academy, where he discovered his true calling as a hairstylist and makeup artist extraordinaire.John built an accomplished career in the beauty industry, and worked his magic on friends, family, and a wide range of clients including many high profile names throughout the Boston salon community and beyond. His artistry, talent, and magnetic personality made him both unforgettable and deeply trusted by those who sat in his chair. His talent was matched only by his ability to make people laugh, gossip, or cry from laughing so hard.

He leaves behind his two sisters, Deborah Baptiste and her husband Don of Scottsdale, AZ, and Elizabeth Donaghy and her husband James of Holden, MA. John was the proud and doting uncle of his four nieces, Paige, Katie, Brooke, and Lindsay whom he affectionately called “his monkeys.” He leaves behind many cherished Aunts and Uncles as well as cousins who were his first friends and partners in crime. He was lucky enough to have a close knit circle of friends that became family whom he cherished and celebrated life with.Outside of the salon, John was a theatre lover, karaoke enthusiast, fashion devotee, entertainer-in-chief, and self-appointed holiday chef. He never met a celebration he didn’t elevate, a costume he didn’t embellish, or a room he couldn’t command. A lifelong lover of theatre and the arts, he was a proud member of the Southborough and Sudbury Players and loved both acting and karaoke with friends. His interests were as vibrant as he was, Broadway, fashion, cooking, entertaining, reading and anything that invited creativity and connection. He believed life was meant to be celebrated and always encouraged having a bottle of Champagne on hand in order to do so.With his artistic flair, boundless humor, and outgoing spirit, John lit up every room he entered. The world will miss his flair, his kindness, his sarcasm, his culinary masterpieces, and his uncanny ability to make ordinary moments feel like opening night. He was a true original. His absence leaves a quiet ache, but his memory will forever bring color, laughter, and light to those who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Sunday, December 7th, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a prayer service at 2:00 p.m. at the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA. A luncheon will follow at Maxwell Silverman’s/Luciano’s at Union Station, 2 Washington Square, Worcester, MA.A Burial will take place Monday at 12:00 pm alongside his parents in Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Marlborough, MA, all are welcome.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John’s name may be made to an organization of your choice, preferably one that appreciates beauty, art, or a little bit of drama!