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Loretta Mae Runyen

August 14, 1939 - February 13, 2021
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Loretta Mae Runyen, born to Richard and Mae Tyler on August 14, 1939, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2021. Loretta was a humble and compassionate woman of God and a powerful example of loving others above yourself. She and her husband were affectionately referred to as “the Wormies” when they volunteered in their daughter’sContinue Reading

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Tim Nalley left a message on December 13, 2021:
My condolences to the Runyen Family. Just found out of her passing. Never got to know my cousin Loretta due to the age difference. Seems she had a full and wonderful life.
Renee Carls (Winklbauer) left a message on February 23, 2021:
I grew up playing with Darlene and I was at Mrs.Runyen's house a lot! Her and Mr. Runyen (Hale) used to call me Fred! I don't know why we had that name for me but we always laughed about it.  I can remember driving in the car with Mrs. Runyen in that Buick Riviera. We were together a lot! Darlene and I danced together and had many fun times at our dance recitals. Mrs. Runyen and my mom would always help us get changed in all our costumes and kept us moving! We had so many wonderful memories. Although I have not seen her in so many years since they had moved from Maryland, the day before she went to be with the Lord, I was thinking of her. A commercial came on the tv for Keebler Pecan Sandies cookies. II turned and said to my husband, I remember eating those cookies at Mrs. Runyen's house when I was growing up. Then sadly the next day I saw Darlene's post that she had died. I am so sorry Mr. Runyen, Darlene, Darrell & family. I will be praying for you. I know she will be missed. My mom sends her sympathy too. 
 Renee Carls (Winklbauer) 
Cheryl Reese left a message on February 20, 2021:
Sweet...SMILING...spunky Loretta! What a BLESSING she was to everyone who met her! She & Ruby Lewis represent my first memory at First Baptist Church of Lewes. Loretta ALWAYS captured your attention by her contagious smile and warm greeting. Then, she & Ruby would engage you in delightful conversation that always left you “wanting more”. I am sure God has her in the front line of heaven’s greeters. My deepest sympathy and prayers go to Hale and all the family.
Bob and Janet Cooper left a message on February 17, 2021:
We first met Loretta when we began attending church in DE. Everyone who came to church knew Loretta because she was always smiling, greeting everyone, and making people feel welcome. She was definitely a blessing to all, as well as a good example to us about reaching out to others. She was an enthusiastic participant in all the activities of the church and was a joy to be around. We remember lots of fun times with the Runyans at Joy Club. So very thankful for this sweet servant of the Lord.
Bob and Hannah Lewis left a message on February 17, 2021:
The first word that comes to my mind when I think of Mrs. Runyen is smile. She always had the joy of the Lord on her face even when I'm sure there were times when things were not always happy. She had a tough task of keeping Mr. Hale in line :) My brothers and I have a lot of fond memories of spending lots of time with the Runyens, and taking family trips with them because in a lot of ways they were like adopted grand parents to us. If dominos are in heaven, I'm sure she's playing them with my dad :)  

Hannah and I are praying for Mr. Hale during the lost of his "squeeze," best friend, and loving wife. She will be truly missed but great assurance in hope in the Lord that we'll see her again.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Ruby Lewis left a message on February 16, 2021:
Loretta was a very sweet lady who was giving, caring and thoughtful.  She always put others before herself.  She had a kind and loving heart.  She was faithful in her service of our Lord.  She served as financial secretary in our church for years, as well as sang in the choir and loved helping with the Hostess Committee.  She was one who would always prepare and send a food dish when needed.                                                                                                                             My heart is saddened with the loss of my dear friend but I cherish the many happy and fun memories with her.  My comfort now is that she is safe in the arms of Jesus.
Linda,Bob and Mike Quigley left a message on February 16, 2021:
We met Loretta about 16 years ago and were immediately drawn to this vivacious, friendly, and genuine caring lady. She quickly became a cherished friend and remained so even after she and Hale moved to South Carolina.
Loretta's contagious smile and laugh could boost the spirits of anyone. Whether she was poking fun at herself, or telling about something Hale had said or done, she could always brighten our day, even in the worst of times.
Loretta was loyal and loving to her family and friends, and we are all blessed to have known her.
Hale was definitely the love of her life-you could tell how much she adored him by the twinklei n her eyes as she told about his latest escapade, laughed at his jokes, and shared his sense of humor.
Loretta was a true example of a Christian, she will live forever in our hearts and memories.
Linda, Bob and Mike Quigley
Ken and Reds Spicer left a message on February 16, 2021:
Loretta is my sister's, Ruby, best friend.  We met the Runyens years ago when we would visit Ruby and family.  Loretta and Hale were our friends the first time we met them.  They even took interest in our children/grandchildren.  Loretta would even call me just to keep in touch.  She and Hale were always such fun and loving.  We offer our love and sincere sympathy to all who will miss her, especially her husband and all of the family.  While Loretta leaves an empty place in our lives and hearts, she is eternally with her Lord and let us take much comfort in knowing that.
Candace Cothran left a message on February 16, 2021:
For the Cothran kids, three of my four, were blessed with Mr. and Mrs Wormie in their 1st grade class with Mrs.Sabe. They looked so forward to their weekly classroom visit and special surprises! The Wormies and Mrs.Sabe of course made lasting memories that they carry with them as Camryn now a Senior and Kendall and Conner in Seventh Grade. We are forever grateful to your family and you all will be in the Cothran prayers.
Brandon Martin left a message on February 16, 2021:
Loretta and Hale Runyen have been a huge blessing to so many people. My brothers and I enjoyed many church van trips with them growing up and had so much fun at church--so many great times and memories! Please know we are praying for Hale and the family during this time and we can't wait to see her again in Heaven!
Pastor and Leslie Munro left a message on February 15, 2021:
Loretta was a cherished asset to the ministry of First Baptist Church of Lewes, DE where she served for over 15 years.  I became the pastor there in 2001 and Loretta was the best greeter and public relations expert I had ever met.  She quickly and kindly greeted every visitor and regular attender each week.  She knew everyone's name.  Loretta was an instrument of guiding many to walk with the Lord by her faithful example and joyous attitude. She was a genuine friend to all who knew her and made people immediately feel at ease around her.  She was a great blessing to us personally and a treasured fellow servant of Christ.  I never heard her complain or speak evil of anyone but she loved all she knew. As a treasured asset to our church, she is greatly missed.
Darlene Sabelhaus left a message on February 15, 2021:
Mom,
Words can not express how much I love you and will miss you. I have been blessed to call you my mom and my very best friend for 55 years. I’m so proud to be your daughter and aspire to be more like you. You mean the absolute world to me and you always have. We will be together again one day.
Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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