MILFORD - Mary E. Runkle passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, Sept. 24, 2010, she was 86. Mrs. Runkle was born in Hershey, Pa., the daughter of the late Robert and Naomi Brightbill. Her life revolved around her family and homemaking. She did a lot of babysitting for families in the Milford area over the years due to her love for children. In her later years, she enjoyed going to yard sales with her long time friend, Mary Jones of Dover. The family would like to send their love and a special thank you to Anna Lee Minner for her hours of friendship, love and faith during the past year, and to Delaware Hospice for all of their help and support. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Runkle was preceded in death by a daughter, Patricia Long of Palmyra, Pa.; and a brother, Daniel Brightbill of Hershey, Pa. She is survived by her husband of over 50 years, William Runkle; a daughter, Melanie Major of Milford; a son, Charles Runkle of Dover; two grandchildren, Travis Holding of Lincoln and Brittany Holding of Smyrna; one great-granddaughter, Kelci Pannell of Hudson, Fla. Funeral services will be private and burial will be in Milford Community Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the Delaware Hospice Center 100 Patriots Way Milford DE 19963. Funeral Arrangements handled by Berry-Short Funeral Home, Milford.