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Ernest Wayne Runnels, 81, of Orange passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024, in Beaumont Tx.

Ernest Wayne was born in Orange, Tx. on December 15, 1942, and was a resident of the Orange area for the last 30 years.

Ernest also resided in the Lake Charles area where he was raised by his parents Archie and Martha Thomas.

Ernest Wayne served his country as a member of the United States Air Force having fought during the Vietnam War.

After returning home from serving his country he became an electrician and was a proud member of IBEW Local 479 in Orange for over 20 years.

He was also a member of the VFW Post 2775 in Orange for many years.

Ernest Wayne was also an avid fisherman and also loved swamp pop and country and western music and taught line dancing.

Born in Texas but cherished his strong Cajun heritage that his mother passed on to him.

Those left to cherish his memory are his son; Cory Runnels (Tiffany), grandchildren; Blake Runnels (Tiffany), Nicholas Runnels, Sophia Runnels, Ryker Runnels, brothers; Bryan Thomas (Beverly), Gleason Thomas (Donna), sister; Marsha Benoit (Mike).

Visitation will be Thursday, March 14, 2024, from 5:00PM until 8:00PM with a Rosary to be recited at 6:30PM at Johnson Funeral Home, 4321 Lake St. Lake Charles, LA. 70605.

Funeral services will be Friday, March 15, 2024 at 9:00AM also at Johnson Funeral Home.

Burial will follow the service at 11:00AM at the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Jennings, LA.