Mabel Childress

CHILDRESS, Mabel Thomas, age 91, of Richmond, Va., widow of Raymond E. Childress, went to her heavenly home on October 11, 2015. She was a beloved mother, mother-in-law, granny, sister, as well as an aunt for many generations of nieces and nephews. Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Betty Thompson and husband, Bill; her son, Tom Childress and his wife, Ann; two grandsons, Matthew and Trevor Thompson; and one sister, Dorothy Spence and her husband, Okema. She was preceded in death by sisters, Nell Wiser, Lillie Mays and Mary Bultje; and brothers, Steve Thomas and William Earl Thomas. She graduated in 1946, with an RN degree from Johnston-Willis Hospital. She worked for 13 years as a charge nurse on the burn surgery unit at MCV Hospital, then for 20 more years as Night Supervisor at Retreat Hospital. She retired to care for her husband Ray. She inspired many family members to go into healthcare. She loved to travel and toured many countries. She was a long-time member of Calvary United Methodist Church and transferred to Bon Air United Methodist Church, where she was active until her health declined. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, crafts and being a Chesterfield County Triad member. She loved being with her family, especially her grandchildren. "Aunt Mabel" was always delighted to see company. The family would like to thank all the wonderful staff at Elmcroft of Chesterfield for providing Mabel a warm, loving home for two years and for being so especially kind. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the Autism Society-Central Virginia, 200 S. Third St., Richmond, Va. 23219. Visitation will be held at Nelsen's Funeral Home on Laburnum Ave., Thursday evening, October 15, from 6 to 8 p.m. A funeral service will be held at Nelsen's Funeral Home on Friday, October 16, at 2 p.m. Interment to follow at Washington Memorial Park.