Billy Harris Mann

Born on March 6, 1933, in Thomaston, Georgia, and delivered by his grandmother who was also a midwife, Billy Mann began a remarkable journey marked by perseverance, achievement, and service. As the only surviving son, he was raised alongside his four sisters by his loving mother and father.

As a young man, he worked a variety of jobs, including shining shoes and delivering newspapers for the Atlanta Daily World, the oldest Black owned and operated newspaper in Atlanta Georgia. He attended Washington High School, where he served as the kicker on the football team with a nickname of "mule". He later attended Morehouse College where he was studying Sociology. His artistic talents earned him recognition from the NAACP for a powerful work depicting broken chains, symbolizing freedom and resilience. He pledged and was a member of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity.

Answering the call to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Army during the Korean War. While serving, he distinguished himself as a talented boxer, winning numerous matches and earning newspaper recognition, with some comparing his skill and determination to that of legendary boxer Joe Louis. Throughout his life, he embraced new challenges and adventures, including skydiving and becoming a certified scuba diver.
Billy was the proud father of seven children. With his first wife, Ernestine, he welcomed Billy, Karla, and Jonathan. With his second wife, Elnora Denise, he welcomed Gibran, Dollie, Bashan, and Angelica. Professionally, he became one of Atlanta's most recognized and successful African American real estate brokers with B Mann Reality and later Pyramid Realty. Billy also dedicated years of service to the United States Postal Service before retiring.

A true citizen of the world, he traveled extensively, with The Gambia in West Africa holding a special place in his heart. Even in retirement, he remained active, participating in Senior Olympics swimming competitions and maintaining his passion for lifelong learning and engagement. Billy found comfort, wisdom, and inspiration in reading the Bible and often reflected deeply on its teachings. He deepened his faith in God with every passing year.
His favorite pastimes included playing chess, dancing, sharing stories, discussing philosophy, and charming everyone he met with his warm personality and playful sense of humor.

On June 5, 2026, Billy peacefully passed away, leaving behind a legacy of courage, accomplishment, adventure, wisdom, and love. He will be remembered for his vibrant free spirit, unwavering determination, and the lasting impact he made on his family, friends, and community.

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