Edward R. Ornelas, 96, of Brownwood went home to his Lord and Savior, Saturday, December 24, 2022, at Oak Ridge Manor.
Funeral services for Edward will be held at 10:00 am Thursday, December 29, 2022, at Blaylock Funeral Home Chapel with Waymon Childress officiating; burial will follow at Greenleaf Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday evening from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of Blaylock Funeral Home of Brownwood.
Edward was born on November 16, 1926, to Rueben and Anita (Rodriguez) Ornelas in Apache, OK. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army, serving his country during the Occupation of Japan 1946 to 1947.
He married the love of his life, Elena “Edna” Ballejo, on December 24, 1953. Edward worked at the Rock River Woolen Mill for 25 years and then was Security Officer for Burns Security at Kohler Company before retiring.
Edward was a member of the “Greatest Generation” and embodied all of the positive characteristics of that group. He was an All-American, God-fearing Baptist, and a hard-working man. He was an outstanding husband, father, and provider for his family. He had a big heart filled with love, patience, and support for his loved ones. Edward was a kind and happy man who seldom complained. He was the leader and a stellar example for his family.
Edward is survived by five of his children, Rosemarie and husband Ron Watson of Brownwood, Vincent Ornelas and wife Sherri Ornelas of Brownwood, Joe Anthony “Tony” Ornelas of Austin, David Ornelas and wife Lanny of Melbourne, FL, Lorrie Parham and husband Tim of Bedford; ten grandchildren, Rachel Ford and husband Lee of Brownwood, Rebecca Trump and husband Adam of Brownwood, Leslie Howard and husband Nick of Irving, Ryan Parham of San Francisco, CA, Gabriella Ornelas of Seattle, WA, Evan McBee and wife Angeline of Germany, Riley Ornelas and Sean Ornelas of Hurst, Heidi Hornsby of Willow City, and Heather Byrd of Brownwood; twelve great-grandchildren; and two sisters; Annie Lopez and Vera Ornelas, and one brother, Robert Ornelas and wife Juanita all of Fort Worth. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Edna; one son, Edward “Eddie” “Ed” Ornelas, Jr.; his parents; and five brothers, William Ornelas, Raymond Ornelas, Manuel Ornelas, Felix Ornelas, and Pete Ornelas.
The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers of both Solaris Hospice and Oak Ridge Manor for their patience and excellent care during his final time on this earth.
Online condolences for the family are welcome at www.blaylockfuneralhome.com.
