Gerald Jerome Childress

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gerald Jerome “Jerry” Childress, age 78, of Lancaster, a beloved Husband, Pop, Grandfather, and Brother. Jerry was born March 18, 1946 in Mount Sherman, Kentucky to the late Howell Jones Childress and the late Christine Lucille (Pepper) Childress. He passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at Mount Carmel East Hospital.

A veteran of the United States Air Force, Jerry faithfully served his country during Vietnam. He retired from McGill AirClean in Columbus where he was a National Sales Manager. He was a member of the American Legion Post 283 in Pickerington. Jerry enjoyed golfing, playing guitar, and spending time with his family who meant the world to him.

Jerry was a cherished man who touched the lives of many with his kindness, warmth, and unwavering love. He will be remembered for his generosity, sense of humor, dedication to family, love of music, and his professional accomplishments. He leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration that will continue to inspire us all.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Barbara Jo (Bebout) Childress, whom he married June 19, 1972; children, Kelley (Benjamin) Breidigan of Newark, Ryan (Amanda) Childress of Westerville, Holly (Brad) Spicer of Senoia, Georgia, and Christopher (Karie) Leas of Pickerington; 11 grandchildren, Dylan (Lisa) Thomas, Cody Spicer, Mallory (Will) Brewer, Brenden Leas, Brianna (Juan) Cervantes, Brady Leas, Jonas Breidigan, Olivia, Sophia, Jackson, and Cameron Childress; great-grandchildren, Landon and Liam Thomas; brother, Kerry (Pamela) Childress; mother-in-law, Margarette V. Bebout; brother-in-law, Kevin (Grace) Bebout of Nashport; sister-in-law, Beverly (Robert) White of Howard; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara June Childress; and his father-in-law, Ronald L. Bebout.

In the coming months, we invite family and friends to join us in honoring Jerry at a celebration of life gathering which will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a local blood bank or blood donation center in Jerry’s memory. Your generous contribution will help save lives and is greatly appreciated.

Jerry will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in our hearts forever.

Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral Home is honored to care for Jerry and his family.