Charlene “Charlie” Runge

Charlene “Charlie” Runge, 86, of Keokuk, IA, passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in Garland, Texas.

Charlie was born on November 14, 1939, in Mobile, Alabama, the daughter of Wade Lane and Helen (Wooley) Lane Thomas. She was employed many places including St. Joseph and Graham Hospital, Mums flowers, and community action until her retirement. She was a member of Cornerstone Church in Keokuk, IA.

Charlie was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan. She spent countless hours crocheting and quilting blankets for her family and extended family. She enjoyed solving word searches, traveling, road trips, and watching Survivor, supermarket sweep, and the amazing race. It was her goal to attend her grandchildren‘s graduations, which she proudly achieved.

Charlie is survived by her children: Theodore (Jasmine) Runge of Malaysia, Frederick Runge of the Philippines, Christopher (Lori) Runge of Garland, TX, Kim Jinkens and Brian Albert of St. Charles, Missouri, Katrina Pulliam of Newport News, Virginia, and Anna (Danny) Hodges of Keokuk, IA; and her brother Mike Culpepper of Fayetteville, Arkansas. Other survivors include her grandchildren: Michael LeMaster, Shannon Jenkens, Ricky Jenkens, Joshua Alber, Jamie Runge, Chelsey Happs, Ryan Schmid, Mark Picton, Heather Culver, Amber Runge, Christopher Runge, Marshell White, and Wridge White and several, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Charlie is preceded in death by her parents; two sons: Wade Sylvester Runge and Keith Paul Runge, and a daughter-in-law Ellen Runge.

A memorial service and burial will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to Keokuk Animal Services on Carbide Lane.

DeJong-Printy Funeral Home of Keokuk is in charge of arrangements.