Benny Lee Childs, a resident of Willow Springs, passed away early Sunday morning, December 6, 2020 while at his home. He was born March 1, 1952 to Robert Lee and Marlene June (Seiner) Childs in Santa Maria, CA, and was 68 years old.
Benny attended the schools in California and Oregon. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1970, where he proudly served his country for 20 years. He was a Transportation Officer and served in various locations in the United States as well as the Philippines and Korea.
He retired from the military in 1991 in San Antonio, TX. He married the love of his life, Colleen Marie Gary on June 26, 1970 in Toledo, OR. When he was not working, Benny liked fishing, scuba diving, camping, gardening, and fireworks. He loved board games and was extremely competitive. He also loved to watch Game of Thrones; however, his favorite times were spent mowing and caring for his yard. He will be dearly missed by his family, his friends, and all who knew him.
Benny is preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Dessie Childs; his brother, Richard Allen Childs; and his best friend, Jim Sanders, who was like a brother to him.
He is survived by his wife, Colleen; his daughter, Jennifer Miller; his grandson, Drake Miller; his sister, June Hoeckendorf of British Columbia, Canada; a friend, Jackie Allberty; and his dog, “Buddy.” He is further survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
The family requests that anyone who wishes to donate in Benny’s memory to please give to the American Cancer Society or the Wounded Warriors Project, which may be left at the funeral home.
No services are planned at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of Willow Funeral Home, LLC. Online condolences may be left at www.willowfuneralhome.com
