Sorry for the fairly long post, and I have put this on social media but my thoughts on Jim:
I have only known for a few hours, and have been trying to process the news. I am bereft by the loss of Jim Mannings to Cardiff, Wales and the larger community.
We often hear these days how the word 'legend' is overused. Frankly, it doesn't do that man justice.
I knew Jim for 30 years. Shared many Scottish double headers with him and watched him try and take (far too many) young ladies 'to Barry Island' with his tray and bouncing lap..
Newer devils fans wlll never know or understand the depth of this man's character, generosity, and love of life.
I was privileged to have sung the Welsh Anthem at many venues and hockey games. What most Devils fans won't know is that, 30 years ago when I was a clueless teenager, Jim was the man who taught me both the words and pronunciation of our Anthem. I will, for that, forever be in his debt.
A formidable force in his prime, some of us got to see him coaching Stephen Cooper (and others) on fighting. He told me that, of his 14 heavyweight fights for Wales, he only regretted one.... His loss to an Englishman.
Jim was a man who took great pride in his country, but not to the point of arrogance. Merely a simple and deep-seated love for Wales. He was the Devils fans' Devils fan, also.
When, as a youngster, he discovered I could not afford to go the Tillburg Euro matches, he didn't hesitate to offer to pay for me. He gave me pristine work shirts when I didn't have the money for them, and never once asked for anything in return.
Our great Club is forever weakened by his absence, but moreover a great man has passed. There are few of his quality, and I doubt I will ever see his like again. My thoughts and love go out to his ever-tolerant wife, his loving daughters, and all who knew him.
God Bless you and keep you Jim. RIP.