David Hopkins Runyon

David Hopkins Runyon, 72, of Flowery Branch, GA passed away on September 20 due to Parkinson-related complications.

He was born to Dr. Sidney Runyon and Eleanor Runyon Laughner on September 17, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois. Dave married June McConkey Runyon in 1974 and was blessed to have experienced 50 wonderful years of marriage to his favorite person.

Dave was raised by Eleanor and Ray Laughner in Ashland, Kentucky, He was a graduate of Russell High School and Eastern Kentucky University. He spent 25 years as a wholesale fuel broker for Ashland Oil and his own company, The Hopkins Group. He shifted focus to insurance in 2002 where he finished his career as a State Farm agent. Throughout his professional career, he was driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a work ethic that was second to none.

Dave was always brimming with life. It was impossible not to be drawn in by his magnetic personality, infectious smile, and big heart. He loved his family. He spent many afternoons playing golf with his son-in-law Richie & his grandsons and never missed a chance to laugh and talk with those he held closest to his heart. He was an active member of Buford Church of God and Free Chapel and drew strength from his deep devotion to Christ. He thrived in being around others. After a busy day of work, he wanted to go to dinner to meet new people and turn strangers into friends. He was also a fierce competitor. From the basketball court to the golf course, he always looked to push the boundaries of his abilities. 

Dave touched the lives of so many. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need, even past the point when he was capable. His deep caring for others was boundless. He has now found peace. He joins his mother, father, and Heavenly Father to watch over us. The joy, the confidence, the charisma, and the tall tales all spotlight the uniqueness of Dave Runyon. He will continue to live on through the stories of those whose lives he touched. He will forever be missed by those who love him.

He is survived by his wife, June; his children Mark (Ellen) Runyon and Ashley (Richie) Aitkin; his grandchildren Hunter Aitkin, Trey Aitkin, Carson Aitkin, Marlowe Runyon, and Ray Runyon; his sister Susan Sherman; his half-sister Carol Cofer; his half-brother Scott Runyon; and his step-sister Michelle Hoverson.

He is preceded in death by his mother, father, and stepfather Ray Laughner.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September, 25 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Memorial Park Braselton. It will be held in the Braselton Room behind the main house. 

5257 Hwy 53, Braselton, GA 30517

Mr. Runyon will lay in state from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm and funeral services will be held at 12:00 pm in The Chapel on McEver (Free Chapel) 3001 McEver Rd, Gainesville, GA on Thursday, September 26 at 12:00 noon.

Braselton Funeral Home, 5257 Hwy 53, Braselton, Georgia 30517 is in charge of arrangements.  Send on-line condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com