Funeral services for Edward Moran, 85, of Eagle Butte, will be held at 3:00 pm (CT), Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Kesling Funeral Chapel in Mobridge. Burial will be in the United Eagle Butte Cemetery under the direction of Kesling Funeral Home of Mobridge. A visitation will be held one-hour prior to the start of the service on Thursday at the Funeral Home. Edward passed away, Sunday, April 19, 2026, at IHS Hospital in Eagle Butte. A full obituary will be provided soon.

Edward Vernon (Ed) Moran
Wiča Uŋ Taŋtaŋhaŋ Owékhiza ~ “Fights For Them” 
September 1, 1940 – April 19, 2026

Edward Vernon (Ed) Moran was born on September 1, 1940, at home in Hay Creek, SD, 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 with pride and dedication. 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 the love of his life, Emaline (LeBeau) Moran. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and simple joys. They made their home in McLaughlin, SD, for many years before retiring to Bear Creek, SD. Ed and Em shared a love for music and dancing, often spending evenings listening to their favorite bands, the Strangers and Wyman & Co. They also enjoyed watching rodeos, traveling, and spending time together. You never seen Ed without Em, they were rarely seen apart. A true reflection of the deep love that they shared.

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 strong in their Catholic faith and 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. Whether catching up with old friends or sharing memories, Ed treasured the connections he made throughout his life. At family gatherings, he was often found at the grill, having perfected his craft as a true grill master. He was also a big fan of boxing and rarely missed a chance to watch a good fight. One of his favorites was Oscar De La Hoya, whom he followed and admired over the years.

Ed is survived by his son, Terry (Zollie) Moran & 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; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as his many nieces and nephews, whom he loved as his own children, and their children, whom he proudly considered his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his beloved cats, Andy and Molly B.

He was preceded in death by his wife and the love of his life, 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 & Meredith Brave Thunder, Posey and Clara Moran.

Ed will be remembered as a humble, hardworking cowboy, a devoted husband, dad, brother, uncle, grandpa, godfather, friend, and a man who lived simply but loved deeply. His life was one of quiet strength, steady hands, and a heart that never strayed far from the people and places he held dear.

He will be deeply missed; He is at peace, reunited with the love of his life—no doubt dancing together once more.