Elwyn Halcott Childs
December 2, 1932 – April 4, 2025
Elwyn Halcott Childs, age 92, of Cairo, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on April 4, 2025. Funeral services are at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Mizpah Primitive Baptist Church. Elder Jimmy Smith will officiate. Services will conclude in the church. The family will greet family and friends immediately following the interment service in the Fellowship Hall of the church. Private family interment will be in Mizpah Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Hiers Childs, Asher Childs, AJ Childs, Garry Childs, David Tomlin and Deron Rehberg. Honorary pallbearers will include current and former Grady County Commissioners, Joe Sanders, Vernon Sanders, Don Prosser, Brian Miller, Dr. Michael Forsthoefel, Frank Pritchett, Sam Faulkner, Frank Jones, Ray Jordan, Leland Barrineau and Pat Pollock.
Born on December 2, 1932, in Cairo, Georgia, Elwyn was the son of Elder Earl J. Childs and Blanche E. Sellers Childs. He was preceded in death by his brother, Max G. Childs and beloved daughter, Vicki D. Childs.
Elwyn is survived by his devoted wife, Yvonne Hiers Childs, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage as of February 4, 2025. He is also survived by his sons Russell T. Childs (Debbie Childs) and Steven E. Childs (Amber Childs), his adopted daughter Carmen Childs, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose love and memories will continue to honor his legacy.
Elwyn’s professional life was marked by his commitment to both agriculture and public service. In 1964, he and his brother Max established a purebred hog farming business, becoming the first to bring purebred hogs to Georgia. This entrepreneurial venture led to the creation of the state organization, for which Elwyn served as president multiple times. He was also elected to the National Yorkshire Association from 1979 to 1983.
Elwyn’s dedication to Grady County was unparalleled. He served as the County Commissioner for Grady County from 1965 to 1982, being reelected seven times. During this time he served as chairman of the board for several years before stepping down to care for his handicapped father. During his tenure as commissioner, he spearheaded the creation of the Grady County Livestock Pavilion, providing a venue for livestock shows. He was also instrumental in establishing the Grady County Livestock Association, serving as its president for several years.
Seeing the need for a National Georgia Fairground, Elwyn convinced Governor Joe Frank Harris to set aside land for what became the Perry Fairgrounds, a national attraction. After his father’s passing, Elwyn returned to public service and served an additional 18 years as County Commissioner from 2000 to 2018, further solidifying his impact on the community. This completed a 35 year run as county commissioner, the longest in the county.
Elwyn was also a dedicated 4-H leader, known as a “master 4-Her” who gave his time to guiding young people in agriculture and leadership. As a 4-H volunteer leader, he ran practice livestock judging events and had a lasting influence on many youth in the area. In 2008, Elwyn was honored as the Man of the Year for Grady County for his outstanding dedication, loyalty, and contributions to the community.
Elwyn was a devoted member and deacon of Mizpah Primitive Baptist Church for over 40 years, where he was known for his faith, leadership, and commitment to his church family. He was a devoted member of the staff and ministry of Clark Funeral Home for over 22 years.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to: Mizpah Primitive Baptist Church, c/o Sanja Godwin, 419 Godwin Lane, Pelham, GA 31779; or Gentiva Hospice, 432 E. Shotwell Street, Bainbridge, GA 39819.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who have offered support and condolences during this difficult time. Elwyn will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.
