Neville Jay Runnels, age 82, of Rockwall, TX, passed away on August 25, 2021. He was born October 1, 1938, in Pittsburg, KS, to Cyril Evan Runnels and Clayta Fern (DeLozier) Runnels. Neville was a member of Lakeshore Church and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Neville served in the U.S. Navy from 1956 – 1961. He enjoyed a long career of 40 years as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service and retired in 2009. Known as “Grandpa” by his beloved grandchildren, he deeply loved his family and was kind, supportive, and encouraging. As a man of few words, he was a good listener, with a reserved and calm demeanor who made others feel safe and loved. Neville enjoyed black coffee, golf, shooting pool, and going to the gun range. He loved the Dallas Cowboys, classic movies, and oldies music.
Neville is survived by his wife of 39 years: Johanna Ernst Runnels; sons: Mark Runnels and wife Jo, and Joshua Runnels and wife Mindie; daughter: Stephanie Wenk and husband Ryan; grandchildren: Natalie Runnels, Garrett Runnels and wife Ally, August Runnels, Harper Runnels, Judah Runnels, and Shiloh Runnels; sister: Sharon Wallace and husband Ron; brothers: Norman Runnels and wife Lynn, and Jack Runnels and wife Ruth; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by siblings Carmen Shurley, Faye Garrison, Charlotte Hennigh, and Merrill Runnels; grandsons Jesse and Jonah, and by his parents.
Memorial Services will be held 10:30am Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at Lakeshore Church, 5575 St Hwy 205, Rockwall, TX, 75087, with Pastor Brad Howard officiating. A Visitation will be held 6:00 to 8:00pm Monday, September 6, 2021, at The Gathering at Rest Haven Funeral Home at 2500 Hwy 66 East, Rockwall, TX 75087.
