Denise Ann Runkles

Denise Ann Runkles, 64, of Thurmont, Maryland, passed away at John’s Hopkins Hospital on August 14, 2021, following a sudden diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia.

The life of Denise was an adventure full of incredible accomplishments, generous love, and great family vacations to Ocean City and the Outer Banks. Denise was a wonderful woman that was loved, is missed, and will always be cherished.

She was born to the late Francis Joy and Dorothy (Orndorff) Joy on February 8th, 1957. Denise grew up in Emmitsburg, MD and attended St. Joseph’s High School. Denise’s heart was full in the love she had in raising her four beautiful children whom she shared with her former spouse, Gary Manning. Denise spent many years working in the banking industry. She also enjoyed her time as a talented florist often making bouquets for weddings. Denise later married the love of her life, Bill Runkles, on October 18th, 2008. After retiring from Woodsboro Bank, Denise enjoyed the loving additions to her growing family, traveling, and time spent on “Bill’s Hill.”

Denise was a past member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Denise's pride and joy were her family and friends, especially her 8 grandchildren. Denise was a great cook and baker. Everyone knew she had the best peanut butter frosting and homemade strawberry jelly.

Loved ones that will miss Denise until they meet again are her beloved husband of 12 years, Bill Runkles; her mother, Dorothy Joy; and her four children, David Manning and wife Karen of Fairfield, Christopher Manning and wife Jamie of Snow Hill, Leanne Toms and husband Mark of Thurmont, and Elise Manning of Thurmont; 8 grandchildren, Jared Manning, Braden Manning, Emily Manning, Rylan Manning, Colin Toms, Carson Manning, Madelyn Toms, and Peyton Manning; two sisters, Tamara Joy of Bel Air, Lori Joy of Emmitsburg; three brothers, Patrick Joy (Tara) of Frederick, Barry Joy (Jean) of Emmitsburg, and Perry Joy (Sue) of Westminster; sister in law, Connie Runkles and her daughter Lucia of Thurmont; along with several nieces and nephews and amazing friends.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, with Father Harry officiating. Private visitation for immediate family only will occur prior to the day of the funeral service.

Memorial contributions in Denise's name may be made to St Joseph’s Catholic Church, 47 Depaul St, Emmitsburg, MD 21727. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.myersdurborawfh.com. Arrangements by MYERS-DURBORAW FUNERAL HOME, P.A., Emmitsburg.