Thomas W. Childress Sr.

1/12/1937 - 11/19/2023

Thomas W. Childress, Sr., born January 12, 1937, in Henderson, KY, died at home in Jeffersonville, IN surrounded by family on November 19, 2023.

Tom is survived by his wife of 44 years, Linda. His 6 children: Thomas “Wade”
Childress, Jr. (Debbie), Craig Childress (Terri), Jane Jones (Ken), Chad Childress (Jayne), Mike Childress (Keena), and Cara Croft (Brian). He also is survived by 14 grandchildren, 1 great- grandson, and sister Joan Mulstein (California). He is preceded in death by his parents James and Florence Childress, his brother Clyde Childress (Margie), his brother Jimmy Childress (Winnie), and sister Gladys Cook (Bob).

Tom began his career as a purchasing agent for a chemical company, went on to work in the coal industry and then founded and owned his own business while living in Henderson, KY. After moving to Louisville, KY, he found a passion for the camp and retreat industry by becoming involved with the founding of Country Lake Christian Retreat Center (April 1998)  located in Underwood, IN. Tom loved volunteering at Country Lake and at times was volunteered by his wife (which he might protest but secretly loved). In 2007, he became the director of Silver Heights Camp in New Albany, IN until 2020. Because of his passion for the
camp and his servant’s heart, he volunteered at the camp until his death. He also enjoyed his part-time work at Mister P Express.

Tom was fond of dining out at any restaurant and enjoyed taking his dog to get their morning breakfast sandwich together. He was also faithful in providing Krispy Kreme donuts for every family function. He loved everything “sports”, particularly when related to the University of Kentucky. He enjoyed playing golf at the Henderson Country Club and had his first, and only, hole-in-one at Pine Ridge Golf Club in Motley, MN.

He was a hard worker who always found ways to busy himself by serving others. He loved and adored his family, cared deeply for his friends, and enjoyed afternoon naps with his dogs. Most importantly he loved and faithfully served his Lord and savior Jesus Christ until his death.

Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday November 26 at:
Chapel in the Woods
1407 Moser Road, Louisville, KY 40299

Visitation will be from 3:00pm- 5:00pm with service immediately following.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to either Silver Heights Camp (509 Camp Ave, New Albany, IN 47150) or to Bob Russell Ministries (PO Box 43933, Louisville, KY 40253).