Evelyn A. Childress, 86, of Hillsboro died March 26, 2026, in De Soto. Mrs. Childress enjoyed playing bingo with friends, singing and spending time with friends and family, especially during Christmas. She will be remembered for her warm and joyful heart. Born July 12, 1939, in St. Louis, she was the daughter of the late Viola (Meyer) and Henry Leissing.
She was preceded in death by her spouse: Vance Childress.
She is survived by three children: James “Jim” (Charlotte) Kertz, Cheryl Swanson and Dennis (Paula) Kertz; 13 grandchildren: Dawn, Jason, Chris, Andy, Nikki, Jamie, Siera, Kurt, Tim, Jim, Jeff, Brad and Joe; and numerous other family members and friends.
She also was preceded in death by a daughter: Elizabeth “Betty” Sondag; a granddaughter: Kimberly Kertz; and six siblings: Viola, Helen, Betty, Henry, Louis and Julie.
Visitation is scheduled from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, at Chapel Hill Mortuary, Robert Brown Chapel, 103 Fourth St., in Hillsboro. A funeral mass is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 1, at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 703 Third St., in Hillsboro. Burial will follow in Good Shepherd Catholic Cemetery in Hillsboro. Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill Mortuary, Robert Brown Chapel, in Hillsboro.