NATCHEZ — Services for Burdia Ree Runnels, 75, of Big Sandy, Texas, formerly of Natchez, who died Friday, April 23, 2010, in Big Sandy, will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at First Baptist Church in Natchez.

Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Laird Funeral Home.

Mrs. Runnels was born Aug. 21, 1934, in Franklin County, the daughter of Claude and Erna Freeman. She was the wife of a loving husband, mother of three adoring boys, grandmother to seven precious grandchildren and a friend to all who knew her. Bert, as she was affectionately called by most, spent the majority of her life in Natchez, but moved in 2004 with her husband to Big Sandy, where she spent her remaining years living ranch life.

Many wonderful moments were shared with her family enjoying holidays and games. She always put her family first and was never too busy to listen with an understanding ear and provide loving guidance and support as needed.

She was known not only for being an outstanding cook, but a fervent domino player as well. Her strong Christian influence will live on through her children, her grandchildren and all of the lives she touched as a faithful church member, prayer warrior and business owner. Her underlying legacy left for all of us is the spirit of forgiveness, determination to never quit and never wasting a moment to complain. Our lives will never be the same.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Earl, J.C., Margin and Denver; one sister, Beulah and one son, Benji Runnels.

Survivors include her husband of 57 years, Jimmy Runnels; three sons, Mike Runnels and wife Demtra, Tim Runnels and wife Amber and Ronnie Runnels; seven grandchildren, Adam, Hunter, Tanner, Christopher, Brooke, Carsen and Cami, and a number of nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the First Baptist Church building fund, 2438 Texas 155 South, Big Sandy, Texas, 75755.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.lairdfh.com.