Joan M. Runnels

Joan Marie (Braun) Runnels, age 93, passed away on December 20 in Indianapolis.  She was born to Joseph and Ella Braun in Chicago--a city she loved--and she conveyed a sense of street smarts and wit throughout her life. In early adulthood, she married Charles Runnels and with him raised three children who survived her: Duane (Beverly), Debra (Roger), and James (Joyce). They in turn blessed her with five grandchildren. She spent 60 years in Indianapolis, where she attended Herron School of Art and Design, earned a master's degree in art education, taught at Ernie Pyle School 90, and took great pride in her students' accomplishments. Her family will remember her as a woman whose humble origins in the Depression could not stop her from pursuing her insatiable quest for learning and desire to teach others. Her fiber art career ranged from spinning and weaving to designing unique work displayed at juried art shows. She is preceded in death by her ex-husband, parents, four brothers, a sister, and a beloved grandson. She is survived by her sister, Marlene.  A Celebration of Life will be held at Flanner Buchanan, Washington Park North 2706 Kessler Blvd West Drive, Indianapolis, on January 17, 2024, from noon to 2:00, followed by a service.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her name to the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Indianapolis Chapter, 50 E. 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240.