James “Jim” Stuart Runnels of El Paso, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, May 15th, 2019. He was a devoted husband of 38 years to his bride Carol Runnels. Jim was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on May 9th, 1946 to Gib & Ellen Runnels. A graduate of South St. Paul High School, Jim joined the U.S. Air Force in 1964, where he proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. Following his enlistment in the U.S. Air Force, Jim worked the majority of his life in executive sales, while simultaneously pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors, building many small businesses around El Paso that thrive today. Jim found fulfillment in sailing, time spent at his pecan farm in New Mexico, all things automotive and most of all, spending precious moments with family and friends. Preceded in death by his parents, Jim leaves behind his beloved wife Carol. He was a loving father of Linsey Runnels Pisciotta and Chad James Runnels. He was the cherished brother of Jane (Runnels) Lee and Mary (Runnels) Frontz. Jim was “Grandpa” to Blake, Parker, Kate & Bodhi.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in his name to Ronald McDonald House of El Paso: https://www.rmhcelp.org/.
