Carroll Gene Childress passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on August 28, 1935, Carroll’s life was marked by service, faith, and a love for the little things in life. Whether he was working in his yard, feeding the deer, or having coffee with his friends at Iron Horse he found joy in all he did.
Carroll’s early years were shaped by a strong sense of duty, which led him to serve his country as an Air Force Veteran. His commitment to service continued as he became an Arkansas State Trooper, a role in which he excelled and was deeply respected. In 1976, his dedication was recognized when he was honored with the State Trooper of the Year award. This accolade was a testament to his unwavering integrity and professionalism. Carroll’s reputation for excellence in law enforcement was further solidified when he was selected to represent Arkansas at the State Trooper Convention in Miami, FL.
Beyond his professional achievements, Carroll loved the outdoors and was an avid Razorback Football fan. He found great joy in going to his cabin at Lake Norfork, where he would spend hours fishing, water skiing, and immersing himself in the company of his wife and children.
Family was the cornerstone of Carroll’s life, and this extended to his church family at Lake Street Baptist Church. As a Yokeman, he played an integral role in his church community, offering his time, wisdom, and support. His faith was a guiding light throughout his life, and he found profound fulfillment in the fellowship and shared beliefs of his church family.
Carroll was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Stella Childress; siblings, Marie Miles, Pat Browning, R.B. Childress, Neal Childress, Wade Childress, Benny Childress; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, J.R. and Ruth Cooper.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Cathryn Childress; sons, Steve Childress, Mark Childress (Henrietta); daughter, Christa Glaub (Keith); grandchild, Marine Sgt. Gatlin Childress; and step grandchildren, Shannon Kieffner, Josh Kieffner, Casi Crawford, and Zachary Glaub; and fur babies, Smokey Joe and Doodlebug.
The family will receive friends on Friday, September 6, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will be on Saturday, September 7, at 12:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Wayne Faulkner and Jody Faulkner officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery.
Bobby Neal Childress, Josh Kieffner, Don Browning, Tommy Bowers, Ronnie Smith, and Zach Beliew will serve as pallbearers. Former and present Arkansas State Troopers will serve as honorary pallbearers.