Thomas Glen "Big Cheese" Childers

Thomas Glen “Big Cheese” Childers, 87, a lifelong resident of Crossett, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, December 1, 2025. Born and raised in Crossett, he was a 1957 graduate of Crossett High School and a member of South Main Baptist Church.

As a young man, Thomas got his start working at Homer Pierce’s ESSO Service Station before embarking on a long, successful, and well-respected career with the Ashley, Drew & Northern Railway Company. Over the span of 38 years, he served as a brakeman, conductor, and finally as an engineer, retiring in 1995. His railroad family remembered him as dependable, quick-witted, and always ready with a story that could make the whole crew laugh.

Thomas also dedicated decades of service to his community. He served many years as an Ashley County Auxiliary Deputy and was a founding member of the Ashley County Rescue, where he volunteered faithfully for over forty years. Whether helping in emergencies or lending a steady hand during community events, he was always someone people could count on.

Outside of work and service, Thomas enjoyed the outdoors more than just about anything. He loved to fish and hunt and spent time in various hunting camps through the years. He especially enjoyed commercial fishing with his buddies and never missed a chance to host a fish fry or cookout—often for fundraisers or simply to bring folks together.

With a heart as big as his nickname, “Big Cheese” had a gift for checking on others. He made it a point to visit friends regularly, drive them to doctor appointments, attend their family funerals and visitations, and show up whenever someone needed support. Outgoing and larger-than-life, he never met a stranger. He was memorable, loud, sharp as a tack, and famously “ornery” in the most lovable way. His stories—told with flair, humor, and perfect detail—will be retold for years to come.

Thomas loved big and lived big, and his unforgettable personality will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing him.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of fifty-nine years, Ann Delamar Childers; his parents, Tom and Dorothy Clark Childers; and two sisters, Rita Ozell Jones and Mary Nell Swan.

He leaves behind three sons, Richard “Hog” Childers (Priscilla) and Tab Childers (Catherine) both of Crossett, and Brian Childers (Margo) of Hazel Green, AL; seven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews; lifelong friend, Jimmy Boykin; and his beloved fur-baby, Aury.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, December 4th, at the South Main Baptist Church, 2801 S. Main St, in Crossett with Pastors Lyle Hern and Donnie Dubose, officiating followed by interment at Crossroads Cemetery under the direction of Medders Funeral Home.  Pallbearers are Alec Lincoln, John Welch, Anthony Cockrell, Steven Wayman, Gerald Lester, J.W. Byrd, Michael Cote, and K.C. Williams.

Honorary pallbearers are Royce Swaim, Jimmy Boykin, and John Key.

Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Wednesday at Medders Funeral Home, 1564 Hwy 52 W, in Crossett.

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