Wiča Un Tantanhan Owékhiza ~ “Fights For Them” September 1, 1940 – April 19, 2026_____________________________________
Funeral services for Edward Vernon (Ed) Moran, 85, of Eagle Butte were on April 23, 2026, at the Kesling Funeral Chapel in Mobridge. Burial was in the United Eagle Butte Cemetery under the direction of Kesling Funeral Home.
Edward passed away Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the IHS Hospital in Eagle Butte.
Edward Vernon (Ed) Moran was born September 1, 1940, at home in Hay Creek to Stanley and Catherine (Dog Eagle) Moran. He was raised in the communities of Green Grass, Bear Creek, McLaughlin, Little Eagle, Eagle Butte, and Isabel, where he learned early the value of hard work, humility, and living close to the land.
Ed attended Green Grass School, Bear Creek School, McLaughlin School, and Eagle Butte School, completing his education through the eighth grade. From a young age, he carried a strong work ethic that stayed with him throughout his life. His first job was with the Cal Smith House Moving outfit, and he later worked for Bollinger Trucking, the Timber Lake Sale Barn, and the McLaughlin Housing Authority.
Ed lived the cowboy way of life. He spent many years as a ranch hand, working for the Sam Tidball Ranch, Duane Miller Ranch, Bill and Martha Scholl Ranch, Keith Olson Ranch, Dallas Schott Ranch, Wayne Maxon Ranch, and John Hoven Ranch. Known as a top hand, Ed was respected for his skill and dependability and was often called upon to help with brandings across the area. He especially enjoyed attending and helping with his son-in-law Wayne Maxon’s brandings.
In 1977, Ed married Emaline LeBeau. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and simple joys. They made their home in McLaughlin for many years before retiring to Bear Creek. Ed and Em shared a love for music and dancing, often spending evenings listening to their favorite bands, the Strangers and Wyman & Co. They enjoyed watching rodeos, traveling, and spending time together.
Ed was a devoted husband who took great pride in caring for Emaline, driving her wherever she needed to go and making sure she was always well looked after. He was a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering commitment. Ed and Em were faithful members of the All Saints Catholic Church in Eagle Butte.
He was known for his storytelling, his easy visits, and the way he could make time stand still with a good conversation. At family gatherings, he was often found at the grill, having perfected his craft as a grill master. He was also a big fan of boxing and rarely missed a chance to watch a good fight.
Ed is survived by his son, Terry (Zollie) Moran and grandson Cody; his sisters, Verna Moran, Carmen (Jerry) Chase, Christine Moran, Wanda (Neil) Hahne, and Philomine (Mark) Moran; his brothers, Roderick (JoBeth) Moran, Stanley (Elizabeth) Moran, and Steve (Tisha) Moran; his goddaughter, Brianna Cadotte; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews and their children. He also leaves behind his beloved cats, Andy and Molly B.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Emaline Moran; their cherished dogs, Rusty, Bud, and Pete; his stepdaughter and son-in-law, Carol and Wayne Maxon; his parents, Catherine and Stanley P. Moran; his brother, Arthur (Art) Moran; his uncle, Ambrose Dog Eagle; and his grandparents, James and Sarah Dog Eagle, John and Meredith Brave Thunder, and Posey and Clara Moran.