Imogene (Canelle) Childress

Imogene Childress, 89, of Fithian, Illinois passed away on May 2, 2025. She was born at home July 3rd, 1935 in Danville, the daughter of Fred and Josephine (Palmer) Canelle. Imogene attended Mount Pleasant Grade School and Oakwood High School. She enjoyed playing softball as a teenager along with her sisters Pat and Joan. She also enjoyed bowling and was a member of the Wolf Creek Golf Club (formerly Vermilion Hills) in Danville. Crossword puzzles and crocheting were some of her favorite pastimes. She worked as an election judge in Vermilion County for 25 years as a proud Democrat.

On Jan, 18th 1953, she married the love of her life, Frank H. Childress, who then became her best friend. They enjoyed 60 years together until his passing in July of 2013.

Preceded in death by her parents, husband Frank, and daughter, Sharon Childress Mildenberger, sisters Linda Turnidge, Pat Sowa and Joan Trosper.

Survived by two sons, Frank K. (Patty) Childress of Lawrenceville GA and Chip (Cindy) Childress in Monticello, IL ,son-in-Law Jerry Mildenberger of Fithian, IL , grandchildren, Clayton (Heather) Brown, Arah (Matt) Huff, Matthew (Christina) Childress, James Mildenberger, Austin (Brooke) Childress, Brianna (Mason) Harding-Brown and four step grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Private graveside services to be held at O'Bryan Cemetery on Thursday, May 8, 10:30 am. 

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