Donald William Childs

Donald “Don” William Childs, 91, of Westfield, IN, passed away on Thursday, July 2, 2026. He was born April 19, 1935, in Cincinnati, OH to William and Melrose (Long) Childs.

If you knew Don Childs, chances are he made you smile.

He loved making people laugh. Whether it was a well told story, a well-timed punchline, or simply his warm sense of humor. He believed life was made better with hard work, kindness, and a good joke.

Don graduated from Elder High School where he was a cheerleader and sang in the glee club. He carried with him throughout life the values he learned from his grandfather, who had a tremendous influence on him. He taught Don the importance of hard work, honesty, and finding joy in life’s simple moments. Those lessons became the foundation of the life Don lived.

As a teenager, Don worked at Wolfs drug store, first as a “soda jerk” and later as a pharmacy technician. Following graduation, he continued part time at Wolfs and began a 35-year career with Procter & Gamble where he worked in Research and Development in the Beauty and Health Care Division. Don was respected for his dedication and strong work ethic.

Music was another joy in Don’s life. He enjoyed singing with the Southern Gateway Chorus, sharing his love of music and fellowship with others.

Don also believed in serving his community. In 1974, he joined Delhi Township Fire Department where he became a paramedic after completing training at the University of Cincinnati. One of the greatest joys of his years in the fire service was serving alongside his son, Mike. The friendships they built, the camaraderie they shared, and the memories made at the firehouse remained among Don’s most treasured.

He later married Nancy, and together they shared 36 years of faith, friendships, and service. After retirement, they continued serving others through their church, Carmel Friends and Carmel Clay Schools. Don drove a bus for children with special needs while Nancy served as the school bus aide. Together, they touched the lives of many children and families with patience, kindness, and compassion.

Don will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose generosity, gentle spirit, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Many people who knew him said, “he is the nicest person”.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his brother, James Childs; and daughter, Sandra Gay.                                                                     

Survivors include his beloved wife, Nancy Childs; children, Stephen (Yen) Childs, and Michael Childs; stepdaughter Stacy (Richard) Matthews; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Friends and family will gather on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 12 noon in Carmel Friends Church, where Don's Memorial Service will begin at 1:30 pm.

In memory of Don, contributions may be directed to Carmel Friends Church, 651 W Main Street, Carmel, In 46032 or Quaker Haven Camp, 111EMS D16C Lane#8051, Syracuse, IN 46567.

Bussell Family Funerals is privileged to assist the family in arrangements.

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