Dennis Ray Runnels was called home on November 26, 2025, in Holdenville, Oklahoma at the age of 71.

Dennis was born on February 22, 1954, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma He lived there most of his life, graduating from Douglas High School in 1972. He later married Eloise Butler and to this marriage was born one son, Dennis R. Runnels Jr.

In 2002 Dennis made his home in Holdenville. He worked at the Holdenville Daily News for many years. He was a hard worker always doing lawn care, detailing and anything else needed by his many friends.

He was a member of the Atwood Nazarene Church and also attended Grace United Pentecostal Church in Holdenville.

He loved to visit and play dominoes with his friends, and spent most his time with his pet Spotty. He was one of a kind and dearly loved.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Mary Runnels, and two brothers, Hubert Runnels and Manuel Runnels.

He is survived by one son, Dennis Ray Runnels Jr and his wife Charity, of Crowley, Texas; one brother, James Runnels; four sisters: Juanita Briggs, Ogarita Smiley, Mary Washington, and Charlsetta Thompson; three grandchildren: Sariah Runnels, Taylor Smith, and Tierney Smith; a special nephew, Lamanuel Runnels; his loving companion Spotty, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, 1:30 pm at Fisher Funeral Home-Lillye Chapel, with Rev. Larry McDaniel officiating.