Barry Wayne Childress

Barry “Bearman” Wayne Childress, 62, passed away Friday, October 18th, 2024 at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 25th, 1961 in Yadkinville to Vern “Bud” Childress Jr. and Virginia Burton Childress.

He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Jackie; daughter, Ashley; grand dogs, Dewey and Dandi; sister, Sharon Childress Best (husband Billy); niece, Alison Best (husband Stefano Paris); father-in-law, Randall Lovette; aunt, Elizabeth Vestal (husband Max); brother-in-law, Randall Lovette II (wife Julana); nephew, Drew Lovette (wife Sonya); sister-in-law, Jennifer Triplett; niece, Madison Triplett; cousin, Neil Vestal (wife Robin), and cousin, Keith Vestal (wife Sarah). He was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, and mother-in-law.

Barry was an active part of his community during his service as a Paramedic with the Yadkin County EMS and Rescue Squad. He held various roles within each organization, including shift lead, supervisor, EMT instructor, and training officer. He received numerous accolades during his years of service and had the privilege of training and inspiring hundreds within the small community. His legacy lives on through them.

Barry’s other passion was music, and he always aspired for his big break. Growing up, he and friends would often play guitar and attend local shows. He worked as a roadie and followed around several of his friends’ bands whenever time permitted. He would occasionally entertain at open mic night. More recently, he enjoyed seeing local bands around Yadkinville, and in Raleigh with Ashley. Without a doubt, he passed his love of music to Ashley. They spent countless hours reminiscing about the old days, seeing their favorite bands, and always looked forward to their next adventure.

The family will receive friends Sunday October 20th from 6-8pm at Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville. There will be a funeral service in the Gentry Family Chapel on Monday October 21st at 11am with burial to follow at Center Global Methodist Church in Yadkinville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Yadkin County Rescue Squad in memory of Barry Childress or the Animal Adoption and Rescue Foundation (AARF) of Winston-Salem, where their beloved Dilly was adopted. Online condolences may be made at www.gentryfuneralservice.com. Gentry Family Funeral Service of Yadkinville is serving the Childress family.