Bethel Mike Childress

Bethel Mike Childress, age 69, passed away peacefully after a short battle with cancer on August 10, 2024 at Holston Valley Hospital in Kingsport, Tennessee. Mike was born September 13, 1954 to the late Worley Ray and Bonnie Ethel Childress. He was a lifelong resident of Blackwater, Virginia.

MIke is preceded in death by parents, Worley Ray Childress and Bonnie Ethel Adams Childress; and baby sister Lisa Diane Childress. Mike's brother Gary Dale Childress passed away on August 12, 2024 after battling cancer.

Mike is survived by his spouse of 51 years, Elsie Sue Bledsoe Childress of Blackwater, Virginia; son, Micheal Shane and wife Amy Michelle Childress of Bristol, Tennessee; grandson, Fredrick James Childress of Bristol, Tennessee; sister, Faith Leona and husband Keith Roberts of Duffield, Virginia; and several nieces and nephews which all had a special place in his heart.

Mike went to Rye Cove High School and completed a GED program. He worked at J.P. Stevens textile before entering the transportation industry as an over-the-road truck driver where he retired in 2016.

Mike devoted his life to his family and worshiped his only grandson, Freddie. He was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed all aspects of the outdoors.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life ceremony and receive friends at Childress Family Cemetery, Dry Creek Road on Saturday, August 17, 2024 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Lyndsey Thacker for her compassion and help during this difficult time.