John E Childers

John Earl Childers departed to his Maker on June 8, 2026.

John was born March 19, 1939, to the late Frank and Lena (Hamm) Childers. He was the third of six children. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Kenneth Estel Childers, Melvin Ray Childers (Anna), and Robert Lee Childers (Wilma). He is survived by his brother, Ralph Franklin Childers, and his sister, Wanda Faye Arbour.

John graduated from Eubank High School and served a hitch in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. He later graduated from Lexington Bible College and spent years faithfully serving the Lord as a Baptist minister. He also worked for General Electric, where he remained until retirement.

On June 15, 1968, he married his one and only love, Sandra Dean Linton. He specifically named her a blessed wife. For fifty-seven years, God blessed their marriage and home. To this union God gave three wonderful children: Dan Alfred, Jan Arlene, and Ben Arthur.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy; his son Dan (Ashli) Childers; his daughter Jan (Kevin) Brunk; and his son Ben (Rebecca) Childers. He was a proud grandfather to six precious grandchildren: Rylee Bledsoe, Brandon (Kayla) Childers, Piper (Tre) Tartaglino, Brooke Childers, Ellis Bledsoe, and Christian Brunk. Since John's passing, the family has welcomed his grandson, Henry Childers, and looks forward to welcoming his great-granddaughter, Murphy Tartaglino, in February 2027.

The most important date in John's life was April 14, 1955. That was the day he was born again by the grace of God. John often shared his testimony in simple words: "God saved me at sixteen and my soul is in His keeping. I'm saved, sealed, and secured by Christ Jesus' Blood."

He loved to tell of God's faithfulness throughout his life. While he appreciated the opportunities to serve his country, minister to others, and provide for his family, he knew where the credit belonged.

"Many good things have happened to me and God did it all."

One of his favorite verses was Job 16:19: "Also now, behold, my witness is in heaven, and my record is on high."

As John reflected on his life, he left these words: "I thank God for giving 87 years to me."

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, November 27, 2026 at Morris & Hislope Funeral Home. The family will receive friends for visitation from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society in honor of John E. Childers.

Donations can be made online at: https://support.nmcrs.org/a/homepage

Donors may select the donation amount and indicate that their contribution is being made in honor of John E. Childers.