Arthur G. "Bud" Manley, Jr.

Arthur George “Bud” Manley Jr., 91, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2026. A longtime resident of Newburyport, MA, Bud lived a life defined by intellectual curiosity, craftsmanship, and a devotion to family and friends. His inquisitive and inventive spirit led him to pursue many interests during his life. He was a loving husband to his wife of 64 years, Moira, a wonderful father, and a true friend to all who knew him.

Bud graduated from Arlington High School, where he competed in track and field, an interest that inspired him to complete two Boston Marathons. He went on to earn a degree in mechanical engineering from Wentworth Institute of Technology and, as a young man, served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve.

Early in his professional career, he worked on equipment used to map the location of NASA’s Apollo 11 moon landing. Later in his career, he was awarded a U.S. patent for inventing the offset medical electrode connector, an innovation that remains an industry standard today.

Following his retirement from engineering, Bud and his family moved to Newburyport, where he owned and operated the Captain’s Quarters Restaurant and co-owned Checkoway Oil Company. Bud and Moira operated the restaurant for many years, forging lasting friendships and becoming part of the fabric of the Newburyport community.

Bud loved the sea and was an accomplished boater, designer, and builder. He designed and built two 35-foot vessels: the schooner Madrigal and the Downeast powerboat Lily Anne. In retirement, Bud and Moira spent summers cruising their boat along the Maine coast and in the fall made the passage south to Hope Town, Bahamas, where they built their winter home. Bud became a respected fixture in the Hope Town community, always lending a hand to friends and neighbors. In later years, Bud devoted his talents to furniture making, taking pleasure in designing and building beautiful cherry tables for family and friends. Music was another lifelong passion, bringing him great enjoyment and, in his final days, a source of comfort and peace.

Above all, Bud’s greatest pride and joy was his family, who loved him dearly. He is survived by his wife, Mary “Moira” Elizabeth Manley; his children, Arthur George Manley III and his wife Sandy, Michelle Manley Morris and her husband John Morris, and Lisa Manley; and his grandchildren, Liam, Lily, Arthur, Lucy, John, Will, and Colby. Bud and Moira were their grandchildren’s biggest fans, cherishing every opportunity to spend time together.

Bud’s warmth, inquisitive mind, and desire to help anyone in need will leave an enduring mark on Newburyport, his beloved community in Hope Town, and the many people whose lives he touched.

Bud was predeceased by his parents, Arthur G. Manley Sr. and Theresa I. Manley; his sisters, Barbara Bell and Paula Smith; his brother, Fred Manley; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services and burial will be private for the immediate family. A celebration of Bud’s life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements were made by Elliott, Woodworth & Rogers Family Funeral Home, 35 Green Street, Newburyport, MA 01950.