Gailya Sue Stilwell Childress

Gailya Sue Stilwell Childress of Blytheville, Ark. passed away in her home on May 9, 2012 following a long and courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma. She was preceded in death by her son Robert M. Childress Jr., parents, Victor and Winnie Phillips Stilwell, special Aunt Wilsie Phillips, and beloved husband of 47 years, Robert M. "Red" Childress. She is survived by three daughters, three special sons-in-law, and six adored grandchildren: Gaye Anne and Jerry Brown of Benton, Ark., Becky and Troy Garlington and children Sarah, Will, Emily, and Olivia of Benton, Ark., and Cindy and Craig Carlock and children Jett and Cade of Blytheville, Ark. Also one special brother, Victor Ray Stilwell, and his wife Suzy of Waterford, Miss., who served as a caregiver for Gailya during many treatments for her cancer, a niece, Andi Jo White and husband Bill of Covington, Tenn., and a sister-in-law, Rose Childress of Little Rock, Ark. Gailya was an honor graduate of Blytheville High School, a graduate of the University of Arkansas, and a life member of the UofA Alumni Association. While attending the University she was a Kappa Kappa Gamma, was elected to the Razorback Homecoming Court multiple times, was an Honorary Cadet Lt. Col. for the Army ROTC, along with various other achievements. Gailya will be remembered as an inspiring and dedicated school teacher to many. She was also a trusted insurance agent in later years. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church and a devoted volunteer. She felt the work she did blessed her far more than those she served. Her volunteer activities included the Mississippi County Literacy Council, Relay for Life, The Haven, Meals on Wheels, Al-Anon, My Watch, United Methodist Women, various projects with Westminster Village, and many others. Gailya's love was for God, family, and friends. She loved reading and gardening and was an avid Razorback fan! Those who knew her were inspired by her unfailing kindness and her absolute inability to put herself before others. Our memories of her faithfulness, courage, and grace will bless us always. The family wishes to thank Dr. Ronald Smith, Dr. Kirby Smith and staff, UAMS Myeloma Institute, and Gailya's amazing and devoted caregivers, Juanita Jones, Shirley Johnson, Cynthia Whitehorn, and Ikekeesha Buckner. A memorial celebration of her life will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Blytheville on Saturday, May 12, 2012, at 2 p.m. with visitation to follow in the church parlor. Memorials may be made to the Blytheville First United Methodist Church or to the charity of your choice.