Wendell Childers, 85, of Barboursville, W.Va., passed away on October 14, 2026 at 8:20 p.m. He was born on July 11, 1941, in Emma, Ky., to the late Foster and Lula (Branham) Childers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Amon and Leon Childers, and the love of his life, his beloved wife, Patty Childers, with whom he shared 57 wonderful years of marriage.
He is survived by his loving family, including one daughter and son-in-law, Wendy and David Bannister; two sons and daughters-in-law, Darren and Jill Childers and Keith and Debra Childers; two sisters-in-law, Peachie Childers and Sherry Martin Baldwin; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Wendell was an avid golfer and basketball player who enjoyed staying active and spending time with friends. He especially loved working out at Snap Fitness three days a week alongside his best friend and caregiver, Stacie Cogar. He also looked forward to sharing lunches and laughter with his friends five days a week at the Barboursville Senior Center.
Wendell devoted countless hours to his children, Darren, Keith, and Wendy, serving as their baseball, basketball, and softball coach. He was always there to encourage them, teach them, and cheer them on. His dedication to his children and their teams created memories they will cherish for the rest of their lives.
One of Wendell's most treasured friendships was with his best friend of 57 years, Steve Parkins, whom he met while working at C&P Telephone Company, and Steve's sweet wife, Rosie. Their friendship was filled with years of memories, laughter, and a special tradition of enjoying one night a week together over a good meal. These weekly dinners were about so much more than food; they were about friendship, fellowship, and the joy of sharing life together. A friendship that lasts 57 years is a rare and beautiful gift.
Wendell treasured his family and friends. His greatest joy and most cherished role in life was being Papaw to his beloved grandchildren: Jessica, Isaac, David, Sierra, Silas, Adrianna, Avery, Alex, Paige, and Reilly. His love for his family was immeasurable, and the memories they shared with him will forever hold a special place in their hearts.
Wendell will be remembered for the life he lived, the friendships he built, the time he devoted to his family, and the love he gave so freely to those around him. Though he is deeply missed, the love he shared and the memories he created will live on through the many lives he touched.
Services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Saturday, October 17, 2026 at the Wallace Funeral Home & Chapel, Barboursville, with burial at White Chapel Memorial Gardens, Barboursville. Visitation will be from 12 to 1 p.m. prior to the service.
Online condolence may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
