Edward Hendricks Childress

Edward Hendricks “Hank” Childress passed away peacefully at his home in New Orleans on October 16, 2025 surrounded by friends and family after a short but courageous fight with cancer. Hank was born in Martinsville, VA on June 11th, 1947 to Henry Edward Childress and Blanch Ingles Ford Childress.

As a child, Hank loved spending time outside, which fostered a lifelong passion for the outdoors. After attending Staunton Military Academy and a brief detour at Trinity University, Hank joined the Marines, rising to the rank of Captain. Hank honorably served and was wounded in combat in Vietnam where he received the Purple Heart. After returning home he received his Bachelor’s Degree in History from George Washington University and then attended law school at Loyola University in New Orleans.

He was an accomplished lawyer having practiced for 40 years, but never lost perspective that his occupation was not his identity. This allowed him to pursue many of his hobbies - most notably fishing on the Rivanna and James Rivers for smallmouth bass in his kayak and playing golf at Keswick. While Hank was an avid golfer, his time on the course was not measured against par, but by the lasting impact he made on those who played with him, especially his son Evan.

A thoughtful man with a deep sense of justice and morality, Hank respected everyone but never let a rule get in the way of what he believed was right. Stubborn at times, Hank was a rebel with a kind spirit until the end.

Hank found joy in the simple pleasures of life – a cup of coffee on the porch in the morning, an oyster po-boy, the beach, walking 9 holes with his son after work, a monkey card, or taking the scenic route home. Not one to be impressed by wealth or status, he lived life with a comfortable confidence without ever taking himself too seriously.

Hank’s simple grace will live on in all of those that were lucky enough to call him friend. Above all else Hank was decent.

Hank is survived by his son, Evan Childress (Sharon); his partner, Janie Pickering; brother, John Ford Childress (Felecia); as well as nephews, Adam Childress and Ivan Childress. He is preceded in death by his brother, Robert Dillard Childress.

No formal service is planned at this time. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Toys for Tots.