Henry Thomas "Tommy " Childress

Henry Thomas “Tommy” Childress, 80, of Kannapolis, NC, passed away Christmas morning, December 25, 2023, following a few months of declining health.

Tommy was born October 18, 1943, in Cabarrus County, to the late Henry M. and Mary Maske Childress. He graduated from AL Brown High School in 1962 and Pfieffer College in 1966, earning a business administration degree. Tommy had worked for American Display Corporation and Green Printing (Chesapeake Corporation) in Lexington, NC.

A faithful Christian and devoted life-time member of Jackson Park United Methodist Church, Tommy joyfully sang in the church choir, was active in Sunday School, United Methodist Men, Council Board and was Chairperson of Trustees for many years. He also loved playing on the church softball team. Tommy also enjoyed watching sports and was an avid Braves fan, traveling every year with family and friends to Atlanta for games. He furthered enjoyed fishing at the Outer Banks, traveling with his wife Sharon, son Randy, family, and friends on many wonderful vacations.

Tommy’s legacy of service, dedication and love will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Family members left with many cherished memories include his beloved wife of 49 years, Sharon Dudley Childress; his devoted son, Randall “Randy” Childress; and his sister and brother-in-law, Suzette and Ronnie Bange, and their son, James Bange.

The family will receive friends from 1:30-3:00 pm Saturday, December 30th at Jackson Park United Methodist Church.  Funeral services to remember and give thanks for Tommy’s life will begin at 3:00 pm at the church, conducted by Reverend Laurie Knoespel and Reverend Dr. Gregory Gordon. Burial will follow at Carolina Memorial Park, where Tommy will be laid to rest.

Memorials in Tommy’s name may be made to Jackson Park UMC, 715 Mable Avenue, Kannapolis, NC  28083.

On-line condolences may be made to the family at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com