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Elmer Childress Obituary

Elmer Childress

Dec. 7, 1929 - Dec. 6, 2022

Elmer Childress, former Weather Director with WMTV, died on December 6, 2022, just one day before his 93rd birthday. He passed away peacefully in his home.

He and his wife June were married for 73 years and raised three children, Pam, Debbie and Shari. Pam passed away in 2021.

He grew up in Bauxite, AR, and went on the road with gospel quartets in his teens. He worked in radio and television in Wichita, KS. The "Elmer Childress Show" featuring his wife and three children ran for 20 years. He also hosted a popular kids show called "The KARD Gang Club." The family recorded 15 record albums and performed gospel music all over the world. Elmer hosted a gospel radio show for Wichita, KS, for decades, and another one for Monroe, WI, which he continued until late 2021. Throughout his television career he did lots of commercials and he and June hosted 46 trips all over the world with Holiday Vacations. While with WMTV in Madison, Elmer was awarded "Most Popular TV Personality" and Governor Tommy Thompson awarded him a plaque declaring January 30, 1998 as "Elmer Childress Day." Elmer retired in 2006, and they moved to Benton, AR. Elmer was inducted into the Bauxite Wall Of Fame in October, 2021. People always appreciated his distinctive piano style, beautiful singing voice and his down to earth, relaxed and fun personality.

Elmer was a strong Christian who was a good, kind, supportive and loving man who had a quick wit, and made everyone around him feel comfortable.

Elmer is survived by his wife, June; daughters: Debbie and Shari; grandchildren: Justin, Becky and Nick; and great-granddaughter, Sirena.

Elmer is now rejoicing in heaven with his family and friends who preceded him.

Send donations to Trinity Baptist Church, Benton, AR.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Madison.com on Dec. 18, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Elmer Childress

13 Entries

David Smith

December 31, 2024

When I was in elementary school, I often went to my grandma's house for lunch. We used to watch his show on Channel 3 in Wichita over the lunch break. I was really introduced to gospel greats such as the Oak Ridge Boys, The Speer Family, The Gaither Trio, and the Goodmans. I'll never forget Elmer's smooth commentary, his awesome piano skills, and his wonderful baritone voice.

David Smith

Mary Rodriguez

October 18, 2024

I grew up around Dodge City, Kansas (western Kansas), and often saw their TV show during the noon hour, Elmer and June. One time our church had them come and do a program on a Sunday night (in Offerle, Kansas). They blessed many, many people! I was watching a program on TBN, thought about Elmer and June, looked up on the internet and found this! (Wasn't sure I was remembering correctly! ) Anyway, your parents were a blessing, and they are remembered... God bless your family.
Mary Rodriguez

Linda Tice

May 12, 2024

I remember watching a TV program I think it was on daily and he would sing the old gospels songs, his wife would be on at times too. I loved it.
I'm so sorry for your loss.

Beverly Clites

December 12, 2023

I always enjoyed listening to him on KFDI on Sunday mornings. May God give you comfort during this time of the year.

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Harold Adams

December 6, 2023

I like his show on the radio, I listened to every Sunday morning.

Billye Myers

September 3, 2023

I grew up in Wichita and have fond memories of my Mother & I listening to the Elmer Childress show. I picked up a copy of Junes favorite book of poems at a local thrift shop, it´s such an inspiration to read, one of my many favorite´s is, Trouble in the Amen Corner. A great lesson to be learned. I am saddened by the loss of someone who touched so many lives.

Harold Adams

March 26, 2023

Sorry about your loss, he was a good person the Radio Sunday morning.

Randy cox

December 25, 2022

Always loved Elmer's attitude and work ethic. Worked with him in your 1989 as an intern at chan 15. Always listened to him on the radio for his gospel hr on WEKZ on Sundays

Carol L .Miner

December 23, 2022

He was always so upbeat and it was a great way to start your day. Condolences to the family, and rest in peace Elmer.

Steve Kessenich

December 19, 2022

I worked with Elmer at NBC-15 in Madison in the 1980´s and 90´s. He was funny, kind, dedicated and just a wonderful person to be around. He was truly loved by all of us who worked with him. My deepest sympathies to June and family on his passing.

MARILYN R O'BRIEN

December 19, 2022

I REMEMBER HIM DOING THE WEATHER. HE WAS A GOOD MAN AND WE HAD TO ALWAYS HEAR HIM TELL THE WEATHER. TEST IN PEQCE GOOD SOUL.

December 18, 2022

I remember watching Elmer on NBC 15 growing up as a kid and even seeing him one year at the Marquette County Fair. Always was fun to watch and seemed like a nice guy in general. Thoughts and prayers with his family and loved ones.

Beverly Clites

December 12, 2022

He will be greatly missed. Prayers for the family. May God give you comfort in the days aheaf.
I always enjoyed hearing him on the radio. I got to see him in person one time when he went to Garden City, KS while I was in high school.

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