Christopher Runnels

Christopher Dylan Runnels, age 27, of Newnan, Georgia, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025. He was born on January 1, 1998, in Valdosta, Georgia, to Rena Thornton and Eric L. Thornton.

Dylan served his country with honor and pride in the United States Marine Corps and later continued his military career in the United States Army. He had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, shooting skeet, or bogging in the mud. Gifted with his hands, Dylan enjoyed working on mechanical projects and had a natural talent for fixing things.

Above all, Dylan cherished time spent with his family and friends. They meant everything to him.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Hester Runnels, Ray Runnels, Leonard Thornton and Uncle, Staff Sergeant Avely Runnels of the Marines.

He is survived by his parents: Eric and Rena Thornton of Lake Park, Georgia; brother, Turner Thornton of Lake Park, GA; aunts: Mandy Thornton of Valdosta, GA and Ashlie Thornton of Douglas, GA; uncle, Danny Lucas (Corky) of Inglis, FL; grandmother, JoAnn Thornton of Lake Park, GA; numerous cousins and extended family members.

Funeral services will be held at 5:00PM, Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the Valdosta Chapel of Music Funeral Services. The family will receive friends one hour prior at 4:00PM. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com. The Runnels family is being served by the caring and professional staff of Music Funeral Services of Valdosta.