Clifton Childs, Jr. - Fairfield

Clifton Edward Childs Jr., 81, a descendent of families moving to Texas as early as 1839, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2009, in Waco, Texas. He was born on September 8, 1927, in Freestone County to Clifton Childs and Corin Watson Childs. He graduated from Fairfield High School in 1945 and joined the U. S. Navy. After his service he attended Arlington State College, and worked in banking until he was recalled in 1950, being finally discharged in 1952. He married Sylvia Isabelle Bastin, the love of his life, on January 24, 1947, and they had two daughters: Julie Ann Childs Medford and Janice Kathleen Childs. After completing his military service, Clifton returned to Fairfield to work at the Fairfield State Bank. He received his insurance license and became a third generation owner of Childs-Bonner Insurance Agency, which at one time was the oldest insurance agency in Freestone County. Clifton also worked at Fairfield State Bank for 17 years while managing his insurance business. Clifton and Sylvia joined the Methodist Church in the 1950s, Where he became a church treasurer and steward, and was an avid supporter for many years. He joined the Fairfield Masonic Lodge #103, later serving as Worship Master, eventually becoming a 50 year member. In 1971, he and his daughter Julie Ann joined the Order of the Eastern Star, Fairfield Chapter # 331. They later served together as Worthy Patron and Worthy Matron. Clifton was active in many other civic and community organizations during his business career, including the Freestone County Fair Association (Treasurer and Commissioner), the Chamber of Commerce (President), the Freestone County Historical Commission (Director), the Fairfield Hospital Board (Director), the Red Lake Fishing and Hunting Club (Director), and he was also a charter member of the Fairfield Lions Club and the Freestone County Country Club (Director). He was a devoted, loving husband, father and grandfather. He loved helping others and brought joy to many with his witty personality, support and overall happy nature. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sylvia Childs of Fairfield, his daughter, Kathleen Childs of Fairfield, and sister, Carolyn Childs Hudson of Waco. He is survived by his daughter, Julie Ann Childs Medford and husband Rick of Fairfield; granddaughter, Corin Kathleen Medford Burrell and husband Eric of Lubbock; grandson, Thomes Edward Childs Medford of Waco; great granddaughter, Harper Ann Burrell of Lubbock; brother-in-law, J.D. Hudson of Waco; nephews, Jim Hudson and wife Peggy of Waco and David Hudson of Dallas; great nieces, Meridith Hudson of Boulder Colorado, Melinda Hudson of Boulder, Colorado, and Laura Madeline Hudson of Waco. Servies will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Fairfield. Memorials may be made to the Frst Methodist Church building expansion, Freestone County Museum, or the charity of your choice.

Clifton Childs, Jr. - Fairfield

September 8, 1927 - February 12, 2009