Thomas Wayne Childress

Mr. Thomas Wayne Childress, age 71, of Ronda, passed away peacefully at his residence on Friday, May 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Thomas was born in Surry County on December 26, 1954, to the late Conrad Jesse Childress and Ester Gregory Childress. 

He was a loving husband, father, and stepfather, and a born-again, baptized, Spirit-filled believer in Jesus Christ. Thomas retired from Mercedes-Benz of Winston-Salem as Shop Foreman. 

 He was always full of life, love, and laughter. Thomas dearly loved his wife and family and enjoyed gardening, working on cars, dancing, and traveling. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

 In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Senega M. Childress, and a brother, Vernon Childress. He is survived by his wife, Karen Miller Childress of the home; step-sons, William Stevenson and Daniel Stevenson, both of Jonesville; and step-grandson, Jasper A. Stevenson.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, 2:00 p.m., May 29, 2026, at Grassy Creek United Methodist Church Cemetery, with Hospice Chaplain Brian Chilton officiating.

In place of flowers, memorials may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care, 968 North Bridge Street, Elkin NC 28621.