JW Childers

JW Childers, 95, of Columbia, South Carolina passed away Saturday, May 14, 2016 at Columbia, South Carolina. He was born on July 22, 1920 in Hickory Grove, South Carolina to the late Robert and Ella McDaniel Childers. JW was strong in his Christian faith and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Columbia. JW was a proud US Army veteran with 33 years of honorable and faithful service. He enlisted at the age of 17 and was first assigned to the Artillery Brigade. He answered his county's call and served during the invasion of Normandy, the Battle of the Bulge, the Korean War, and the Vietnam Conflict. His career of distinction was surrounded by firsts. JW rose quickly among the ranks, becoming the Army's youngest First Sergeant at that time. He was also within the first group of 20 Sergeant Majors after the institution of the new rank. He was then given the privilege of serving his fellow soldiers as a Command Sergeant Major. Throughout his career he was a successful baseball player and coach for Army Men's Baseball team. JW led championship teams wherever he was stationed. After his retirement in 1970, he worked several jobs including insurance sales, real estate manager, worked in the moving and storage business and a food service equipment manager. The last 30 years, JW spent his days in the tree removal and stump grinding business (Stumpbusters) throughout Columbia and the surrounding area. He will truly be missed. JW is survived by his daughters, Sandra C. Greer (Philip) of Columbia, SC, Helen K. Jansen (Alexander) of Columbia, SC; sons, James R. Childers (Cynthia) of Columbia SC, Joel W. Childers of York SC; grandchildren, Catherine Greer, Deborah Ashbaugh (Eric), David Jansen (Sarah Beth), Amy Childers, and James Childers, Jr. (Savannah). He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Andrew Jansen and Alex Ashbaugh; many nieces, nephews and cousins to cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Helen Katherine Smith Childers, and a daughter, Peggy Ann Childers. He was also predeceased by eight brothers and three sisters. Funeral Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced.