Obituary of John Edward Childress

John Edward "Ed" Childress, age 86, passed away at his home in Pitman, NJ on Friday, April 17, 2020. He was born on July 21, 1933 in Lawrenceville, Illinois to John W. Childress and Alice (nee Scott) Childress. In 1949, his family moved to Pitman, NJ where he graduated in 1951 from Pitman High School. Ed served his Country as a Navy Tin Can sailor during the Korean War from 1951 until he was honorably discharged in 1955. On March 29, 1958, he married Anne Lou Skinner of Pitman, NJ. Together, they had two daughters, Luanne and Katharine. In March 1956, Ed joined the Pitman Fire Company #1 where he was a loyal member for more than 64 years. During his more active years, Ed served the fire company as President, Vice-President, Chief, Deputy Chief and Engine #2 Captain. Once he became too old to actively fight fires, Ed continued responding to the fire whistle—this time as a fire policeman directing traffic at active firefighting sites, so his fellow firemen could safely do their jobs. In addition, Ed helped form the Junior Firefighter training program for Pitman High School students. He acted as firefighting teacher, mentor and coach to many future firemen and women. In July 2018 the Borough of Pitman selected Ed and Anne as the Grand Marshalls of the Pitman 4th of July Parade in recognition of their many contributions to the town. Ed worked for the South Jersey Gas Company for 30 years as a serviceman and employee trainer. He enjoyed many hobbies including boating, fishing, miniature trains and traveling, but his greatest joy was spending time with his family and being "Pop" to his grandchildren. Ed is survived by his wife of 62 years, Anne; his daughters, Luanne (Malcolm) Vendrick of Chadds Ford, PA and Katharine; his sister, Linda of Anacortes, WA; and, his grandchildren, Mallory (Cameron) Vendrick Roth of Fort Lauderdale, FL and Matthew Vendrick of Raleigh, NC. Ed is predeceased by his parents and sister, Betty O'Donnell. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ed's name are welcomed to Pitman Fire Company #1, 110 South Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071. Memories may be shared at www.kelleyfhpitman.com.