Wanda Estelle Howell Childress

Mrs. Wanda Estelle Howell Childress, 86, of Yadkinville passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on August 10, 2025. She was born on December 2, 1938, to the late George “Grandy” and Margaret “Nannie” Howell. In addition to her parent’s death, she is preceded by her loving husband of 59 years, Walter Ray Childress, brothers Richard and Gary Howell, Sisters Patty Howell Hutchens and Judy Howell Allred, and niece Angie Howell. She is survived by her three children, Lisa (Frank) Crothers, Jeff Childress, and Beth (Richard) Beamer, Grandchildren, Cory Crothers, Alli Pendergrass (Chris Whitt), and Ethan (Kate) Decker, the loves of her life, Great grandchildren Bleu and Landree Pendergrass, brother Keith (Jerrie) Howell, sisters-in-law Frances Mabe and Judy Miller, and a brother-in-law, Steve Childress. Nieces and nephews, Stephanie Hutchens, Kristy Handy, Melissa Howell, and Maria Moxley, Nephews, Andrew and Stacey Howell. Step grandchildren Tommy (Allison) Beamer and Megan (Joey) Ledbetter, and step great grandchildren Kayla and Eddie Ledbetter and Reece and Finnlea Alice Beamer. Wanda graduated from Yadkinville High School in 1957. She was a beloved housewife and caretaker to her parents. She helped run Howell’s Antiques for various years centered in Yadkinville, NC, and enjoyed antique appraising, along with cooking and canning. She spread her love through home cooked meals and being the soul of the family. A lover of history and craftsmanship, she delighted in searching for antiques and unique pieces, seeing the charm in items others might overlook. Her peace came from flea markets, watching the Atlanta Braves play ball and time spent with family. A private ceremony will be held at a later time. Special thanks to Dr. James McGrath and staff, also special appreciation to Kevin & Deidra, and other staff at Mountain Valley Hospice Center in Yadkinville, North Carolina. In lieu of flowers, any donations can be made to Mountain Valley Hospice 243 N. Lee Ave. Yadkinville, NC 27055 or Yadkin County Animal Shelter 1027 Speaks St. Yadkinville, NC 27055. Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the Childress family.