Catherine Ann Childress

Catherine Ann Childress, a beloved matriarch known for her remarkable career, compassionate heart, and vivacious spirit, passed away on March 16, 2025, at her home in Cunningham, while surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 9, 1944, in Kansas City, Missouri, Catherine's life was marked by excellence, service, and a profound love for her family.

Catherine's passion for learning led her to higher education at the School of the Ozarks, the University of Wyoming, and Austin Peay State University. It was this drive for achievement that began her professional journey as a library clerk at the School of the Ozarks, but her ambition and dedication took her on a much broader path. She became the owner, manager, and operator of a motel, trailer park, and laundromat, blending entrepreneurship with service to the community. Her commitment to service extended into a long and fulfilling tenure with Civil Service, where she worked as a military supply clerk at Fort Leavenworth and Fort Sill. During her time in Darmstadt, Germany, Catherine further showcased her versatility as a Quality Control Technician for Goodyear Tire while still working in Civil Service as a private driver for a Colonel Perez at Cambrai Fritsch Kaserne.

Catherine concluded her illustrious career at Fort Campbell, where for 32 years she held positions as a Military Supply Clerk and a Quality Assurance Inspector. Additionally, she received the Commander's Award and various commendations for excellent service throughout her esteemed 50-year career with the military. Catherine was not only a dedicated professional but also an active member of the military and civilian communities. She received recognition as a Kentucky Colonel, and an honorary member of the Non-Commissioned Officers Association of the 101st Airborne Division, further signifying her honorable service and respect within the military community. She also received special recognition and thanks by the Night Stalkers for her exceptional support. Catherine was a member of the Red Hat Society, the Fort Campbell Retirement Club, and she passionately supported St. Jude Children's Hospital as well as Defenders of Wildlife. Her exceptional contributions earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as a Presidential Sales Representative with Avon for seven consecutive years.

Catherine adored her 5 Pomeranian puppies Katie, Georgie, Cinnamon, Jesse, and Tilly. Her competitive nature and sharp wit were reflected in her love of puzzles and games. She was also known for her love of flowers, especially wildflowers. She found joy and beauty in nature and poetry reflecting her vibrant and colorful personality.

Catherine is survived by her adoring children: Etoile Harrison (J. Michael Stanley), Tina Harrison, Penneyton Harrison (Leah Cain), Earl Harrison III, and her chosen daughter, Kym Rudolph. She is remembered fondly by her nephew, Anthony Robert Ross (Charlie), and great niece, Samantha Ross, in addition with remembrance by her nephew Lennie Callaway. She cherished her role as a grandmother to Catherine Hack (Russell), Rachel Baran (Joseph), Jacquelin Harrison-Stanley, Micheal Harrison-Cain, and Thomas Harrison. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Michael-Ray Hack, Catherine Hack, Elena Baran, and Landon Harrison.

In addition to her true love Wilburn Childress, she was preceded in death by her parents, Helen Birdie Miller Ross and Elmer Dee George, and her siblings Nancy Ross, Patrick George, and Jack George.

Catherine's memory will be honored with visitation services on Thursday, March 20th, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at McReynolds-Nave & Larson Funeral Home in Clarksville, TN. A Celebration of Life will begin at 10:00 AM on Friday, March 21st at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest with her husband, Wilburn Childress, at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West in Hopkinsville, Kentucky at 12:00PM. Serving as pallbearers are Penneyton Harrison, Earl Harrison III, Joseph Baran, J. Michael Stanley, Russell Hack, Micheal Harrison-Cain, Samuel Williams, and Thomas Harrison.

Catherine Ann Childress leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and dedication that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known her. Condolences may be made to her family at NaveFuneralHomes.com.