TRAGIC SHOCK: Ole Miss Icon Archie Manning’s Cousin Found Dead in Oxford Crash! Rebels Mourn as Hotty Toddy Spirit Dims!  Full Story!

TRAGIC SHOCK: Ole Miss Icon Archie Manning’s Cousin Found Dead in Oxford Crash! Rebels Mourn as Hotty Toddy Spirit Dims!  Full Story!

TRAGIC SHOCK: Ole Miss Icon Archie Manning’s Cousin Found Dead in Oxford Crash — Rebels Mourn as Hotty Toddy Spirit Dims

By [Your Name]
Oxford, Mississippi – June 13, 2025

In a devastating turn of events, the Ole Miss community is reeling after the sudden death of Cooper Manning Jr., a cousin of Rebel legend Archie Manning, who was tragically killed in a single-vehicle car crash late Tuesday night in Oxford.

According to the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred near Old Taylor Road just after 11:30 p.m. Authorities say Manning’s vehicle veered off the road, struck a tree, and caught fire. Emergency responders arrived within minutes but were unable to save him. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

He was 47.

A Family Name Synonymous with Ole Miss

The Manning family is deeply woven into the fabric of Ole Miss football and Southern sports culture. Archie Manning, one of the greatest quarterbacks in Rebels history, helped turn the program into a national powerhouse in the late 1960s and early ’70s. His sons—Peyton, Eli, and Cooper Sr.—have since become household names across the country.

Cooper Manning Jr., though less in the public spotlight, was a respected member of the Oxford community. A private businessman and lifelong supporter of Ole Miss athletics, he was frequently seen at games and campus events.

“This is a heartbreaking loss,” said Ole Miss Athletic Director Keith Carter. “The Manning name is sacred here, and Cooper was family in every sense of the word—not just by blood, but by spirit. We are devastated for the entire

Manning family.”

Community in Mourning

News of the accident spread quickly across Oxford, where tributes began pouring in overnight from students, fans, and alumni. A small candlelight vigil was held Wednesday night outside Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, with many attendees wearing Manning jerseys and holding signs that read, “Forever a Rebel.”

The official Ole Miss Football account posted a somber message early Wednesday morning:
“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Cooper Manning Jr. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Manning family during this difficult time. Once a Rebel, always a Rebel. #HottyToddy”

Investigation Underway

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash, though initial reports suggest no foul play was involved. Toxicology reports are pending. Officials confirmed that Manning was alone in the vehicle.

Final Thoughts

This tragic loss has cast a long shadow over Oxford and Rebel Nation. Known for his quiet generosity and unwavering pride in Ole Miss, Cooper Manning Jr.’s legacy will live on in the memories of those who knew him—and in the long, proud history of the Manning family’s bond with the university.

As one fan wrote on social media:
“The Hotty Toddy spirit feels dimmer today. Rest in peace, Cooper. Oxford won’t be the same without you.”