With heavy hearts and everlasting love, we celebrate the life of Dave Childs Jr., who passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the age of 68. “Junior”, as he was affectionately known, was born on May 18, 1957, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Dave and Odean Childs (nee Hazelwood).

Born with a smile that made everyone feel welcome, he was the life of the party without ever trying. He had a talent for grilling, a gift for painting homes with care, and a willingness to help anyone who needed him. A true giver at heart, Junior was a loving and caring father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, who would drop anything he was doing to help anyone in need. He would offer the shirt off his back without a second thought. His hands were always busy, and his heart was always open.

Junior graduated from Rufus King High School in 1974. He devoted his career to caring for others in the medical field, working with children and adults with special needs. His patience, empathy, and gentle spirit made him a natural caregiver.

As a young man, Junior was an original and the youngest member of the NAACP Youth Council Commandos—a dedicated group formed to protect young marchers during the Eagles Club protests and the fair housing marches of the 1960s. His commitment to justice carried him to Resurrection City in Washington, D.C., where he stood in solidarity with the Poor People’s Campaign. Junior was a steadfast believer in civil rights, equality, and the power of standing up for what’s right.

Junior was a man of simple joys and deep passions. He loved to play and watch basketball, cheer on all Wisconsin sports teams, and listen to music, which often filled his home with the sounds of Bob Marley or Earth, Wind, and Fire. Whether he was dancing, singing, or playing the bongo drums, he brought rhythm and happiness wherever he went. He also loved playing darts, getting lost in a jigsaw puzzle, and reading and playing with his granddaughters.

Junior is survived by his loving daughters, Maria and Melissa Childs, granddaughters Madelyn, Isla, and Stella; brother, Derrick Childs (Donna), sisters, Mary Arms (Adolph), Lyneria McGhee, and Freddie Childs, special companion Dorothy Odom, as well as a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

Junior was preceded in death by his parents, Dave and Odean (Hazelwood) Childs, his sister, Sandra Childs, and brothers, Darren and Darrell Childs.

The visitation will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Krause Funeral Home, 7001 West Brown Deer Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, with a service at 12:00 PM.