Gem Brady Childress

Gem Brady Childress, beloved husband, father and “Grandad,” passed away at the age of 79 on Thursday, June 29, 2023, in Sugar Land, TX, after courageously battling Alzheimer’s disease. Gem was born in Lubbock, TX, on October 29, 1943, to Oleta and Brady James “Skeet” Childress. Gem is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Judy (Timmons) Childress, and his sons Trent Childress (and Jennifer) of Georgetown, and Kirk Childress (and Kelly) of Sugar Land. He took great pleasure in his four grandsons: Brady (and Reagan) Childress, Luke Childress, Wyatt Childress, and Will Childress. Through the years, he and Judy enjoyed countless hunting and fishing trips, watching baseball and football games, Christmas Eve celebrations, and a family trip to Gulf Shores, AL, in 2014 to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

Gem and Judy grew up together in Brownfield, TX, attending the same church and schools. After graduating from Brownfield High School in 1962, Gem attended Texas Tech University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business in 1966. The high school sweethearts married August 28, 1964, in Brownfield.

They moved to Houston in 1966 when Gem began his career as the regional land manager for Humble Oil/Exxon Company USA. Trent was born in Houston before they transferred to Lubbock in 1968 where Kirk was born in 1970, and in 1971 the family moved back to Sharpstown in Houston. Their family of four made Sugar Creek their home where they have lived for 50 years. Gem went to work for United Savings Association of Texas in 1973 and stayed in the banking business for the remainder of his career. In addition, he pursued his passion for real estate by developing numerous communities. Gem proudly served on the Board of Trustees for Houston Baptist University (HCU).

Gem knew and loved Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was ordained as a deacon at River Oaks Baptist Church at the young age of 29. He served as a department director and Sunday School teacher for various age levels for many years. He and Judy faithfully serve and attend Sugar Land Baptist Church.

He made a difference in the lives of all who knew and loved him. Gem will be remembered as a friendly man with a joy and zest for life. He never met a stranger. The family wishes to thank the incredible staff who cared for him at The Village at Sugar Land memory care home for the last seven months.

The family will welcome guests from 5-8pm on Thursday, July 6, at Earthman Funeral Home in Stafford, TX. A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 7, at Sugar Land Baptist Church led by long-time family friend and Pastor Larry York followed by a private family burial at Forest Park Southwest in Richmond, TX.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Gem’s memory or the charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with his family at www.earthmansouthwest.com.