Jim Childers

Jim Louis Childers, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and esteemed music educator, passed away on January 12, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. Born on July 14, 1950, in Wynne, Arkansas, Jim's life was a symphony of love, dedication, and creativity that touched the hearts of all who knew him.

Jim's early life in Arkansas laid the foundation for his passion for music. He honed his skills and knowledge at Arkansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Music Education, and later at Henderson State University, where he completed his Master of Music Education. Under the mentorship of Dr. Francis McBeth, Jim studied music theory and orchestration, which would become the cornerstone of his illustrious teaching career.

For 34 years, Jim inspired students as the head director of several high school bands, including those at Cross County High School, Arkadelphia High School, Fredericksburg High School, San Angelo Central High School, Smithson Valley High School, and Gatesville High School. His dedication to excellence was evident in the consistent sweepstakes, State Marching Contest appearances, Honor Band Finals, and the impressive 447 First Division Ratings his bands achieved. Jim's influence extended beyond the classroom as he served as an adjudicator and clinician in Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma for 30 years, sharing his expertise and shaping the future of music education.

Jim's professional affiliations with Phi Beta Mu and the Texas Music Adjudicators Association (TMAA) reflected his commitment to the music community. He was also the author of "The Art of Band Directing, Proven Methods of Success," a testament to his innovative approach and contributions to the field, published by RBC Music Publications.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was a man of many interests. He found joy in fishing, where the tranquility of nature was a counterpoint to his vibrant career. Ballroom dancing allowed him to express his artistry in motion, and his love for reading kept his mind as sharp as his conducting baton.

Jim's legacy is carried on by his loving family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Annie Vinton Childers of San Antonio, TX; his mother, Martha Childers of Searcy, AR; his daughters, Mary Anne Parker of Harrisburg, AR, and Elizabeth Childers of Jonesboro, AR; his sister, Karen Childers of Ft. Smith, AR; his grandchildren, Caroline Parker of Tulsa, OK, Kaiser Parker of Harrisburg, AR, and Emmaline Wortham of Jonesboro, AR; along with several nieces, nephews, and a host of friends and family members. Jim is preceded in death by his first wife, Rose Anne (Redd) Childers; and father, Louis L. Childers.

Jim's spirit and teachings will continue to resonate through the countless lives he influenced. Jim will be remembered as a wonderful music teacher with an outgoing personality that could light up any room. His creative, kind, and intelligent nature made him not only a master of his craft but also a beloved figure in every community he was part of.

Jim's life was a melody of achievements and affections, a composition of the highest order that will be dearly missed. As we bid farewell to Jim Louis Childers, we celebrate the enduring impact of his work and the harmonious memories he created for all who were fortunate enough to know him. His song may have ended, but the music will play on in the hearts of those he inspired.

A visitation for Jim will be held Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 12:00 PM at Sunset North Funeral Home, 910 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, TX 78232 with a funeral service at 1:00 PM. There will be a funeral procession to follow for a committal service at 3:00 PM at Mission Park Cemetery Dominion, 20900 I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257.