Thomas Childs

Thomas William Childs took his final bow on July 28, 2025, after bravely battling lung and heart disease. The man was a powerhouse of strength and courage, living life on his own terms, fiercely independent and never allowing illness to define him. His love fills the hearts of those left behind, and his memory will tick-tock in our minds every single day.

Tom's legacy includes his beloved partner Victoria; his daughter Raquel (Bhrett) Perdue and son Jason (Mandy); grandsons Trevin and Connor Perdue and Kendel Childs; a great-granddaughter Kenley; his former wife Florence; and a vibrant bunch of nieces and nephews: Lynn, Kim, Peter and Jeff (Waldorf), David Lynch, and Bobbie Sue Schiffauer. Preceding him in this grand adventure were his parents, William and Grace (Schenaur), and his sisters, Nancy (Ken) Waldorf and Sue Ann Lynch.

Born on August 20, 1945, in Buffalo, NY, Tom was a dynamo from the start, achieving WEBELOS rank in Cub Scouts, playing football and baseball, and cutting a rug at dances. He graduated high school in 1964, then defied his mom's wishes by joining the Air Force in '66 during the Vietnam War, stationed in Pakistan. His whirlwind romance with Florence led to their marriage on 11/24/67, and soon they were stationed at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, welcoming daughter Raquel in 1969.

After an honorable discharge, Tom returned to Buffalo. He worked at Bethlehem Steel before shifting gears to a trucking career. Son Jason arrived in 1974, and the family soon moved to Pennsylvania. Tom logged almost 7 million miles on the road, making friendships that lasted, until health nudged him into retirement in 2017. The man knew every city like the back of his hand and could pinpoint the best truck stops with ease.

A die-hard sports disciple, Tom bled Bills and Sabres colors and was the ultimate team parent for soccer and swim teams. From swim meets to wrestling matches, and as a die-hard Fresno Monster fan, he clocked countless 10-hour trips for thrilling hockey games. Tom was a legend in life and will remain so in our hearts. A Celebration of Life will be held on October 11, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 08:00 PM at residence 6888 W Avenida del Sol