James L. Childress, age 85, passed away on January 11, 2014. He was a son of the late Samuel and Maxie Colley Childress. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Susie S. Childress, sons Douglas and wife Lisa, Teddy, Dwight David and wife Carla Hanzal; grandchildren Lauryn, Amber, Samantha, and Helena; great grandchild Mason, and his sister Ruth Anne Elswick. He was active in the Masonic Order, Sandy Valley Lodge # 17 and enjoyed the fellowship of his brethren far and wide. He served our country proudly in the United States Army stationed in the Pacific. He worked in the Breaks Interstate Park for over 30 years retiring as Park Superintendent where he was instrumental in its development and growth. His love of Southwest Virginia’s natural beauty lives on in this unique family recreation area. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Alice, Maxine (Lovie), Nina Mae and Rushie and brothers, Bill, Clyde, Corbett, Earl and Sammy. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 8:00 PM on Monday January 13 at Haysi Funeral Home with a Masonic service at 7:00 p.m.
Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, January 14 at 11:00 a.m. at Haysi Funeral Home with Elder Roger Fuller officiating. Burial will immediately follow in the N.B. Colley Cemetery, Breaks Virginia with military rites. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorials be made to the Buchanan County Animal Shelter, Grundy Virginia. Online condolences may be sent www.haysifuneral.com Haysi Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.