Joe R. Childress, 73, a recent resident of Northwood, NH died Monday, December 18, 2006 in The Hospice House, Concord, NH following five years of declining health. He was born September 12, 1933 in North Zulch, TX, a son of the late Albert L. and Ruby P. (Henson) Childress. He graduated from Tomball High School in Tomball, TX and went on to serve in the U.S. Army. He was a longtime Texas resident, though he enjoyed New England and was able to fulfill his dream of returning prior to his passing. Two weeks after he met Alice J. Hatt, a hardheaded Yankee and a stubborn Texan were married July 14, 1961. Mr. Childress worked for 30 years as manager/president of Hi-Lo Auto Parts in the Houston area and moved on to be self-employed at Cleveland Auto Parts in Cleveland, TX. At 6’5” he was fondly known as a gentle giant. He loved nature, animals and his pets. Mr. Childress enjoyed landscaping and especially gardening, where he could work the land and he gave away the fruits of his labor. His biography may be short in words but is deep in spirit and he left many meaningful experiences for his family to remember. His last words were “I love my family.” He also loved and trusted his Lord.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Alice J. (Hatt) Childress of Northwood, a daughter, Shawna Roubion of Marrero, LA, a son, Mike Childress of Danville, NH, two brothers, G.H. Childress of Magnolia, TX, Jesse Childress of Richards, TX, a sister, Reba Harmeier of Tomball, TX and also by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Lee Ross Childress.
Visiting hours were held Thursday, December 21st from 7-9pm in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch St., Derry, NH. The funeral was held Friday at 11:00am in the funeral home. The burial was in the Pine Grove Cemetery, Northwood.