Garrett Childers

Garrett Childers’s life began with challenges when he was born seven weeks early. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at eighteen months, Garrett and his parents were undeterred as he worked hard to reach and exceed milestones, a trait seen throughout his life. When he was twelve years old, Garrett began boxing and mixed martial arts training.

When Garrett was eight years old, his brother and best friend, Austin, was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease. Side by side, with Austin through his twelve-year fight with the disease, Garrett developed great strength, perseverance and a desire to serve others. While still in high school, Garrett founded the non-profit organization, “Childers Children”, to provide comfort to children facing chronic illness and long hospitalizations. Thousands of toys and blankets have been, and continue to be, delivered to children in middle Georgia through the efforts of Childers Children.

A 2013 graduate of First Presbyterian Day School, Garrett was named “Best Citizen” of his senior class, an honor presented annually to the student who best exemplifies high standards in leadership, scholarship, integrity and loyalty.

Chosen as his high school’s representative to the state of Georgia’s Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership (HOBY) program, Garrett was active in the HOBY leadership for years afterward. He represented the state of Georgia at the Hugh O’Brien World Leadership conference in Chicago, served on the Junior Staff for the HOBY program in Georgia and was a featured presenter at the HOBY Maryland Conference. Recognizing that his words and manner of inspiring others were unique, Garrett became a featured speaker with Character University, a nationwide leadership and character-building organization.

Grieving deeply following his brother’s death, Garrett attended the Passion Conference in Atlanta in January 2014. His small group included a young woman from Pennsylvania, Katie Ervin, and a long-distance friendship soon turned into a romance. Garrett and Katie were married in April 2016 in Macon and settled into their bungalow in Ingleside. Two months later, Garrett became ill and by the fall, was in the throes of a battle with mitochondrial disease. What took years to progress in Austin, sped through Garrett in months. For the next two years, Garrett was bedridden, unable to eat or drink, endured numerous surgeries, completely dependent on his family for around the clock care.

Despite constant suffering, Garrett displayed his character and strength as his concern remained for the well-being of his bride and his parents. In the midst of unending pain, grieving a life not fully lived, Garrett continued to trust God for whatever came his way. Garrett clung to the words of 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” trusting that God will make good use of the deep pain his family endures anew. Thinking of their needs always before his own, Garrett remained a source of comfort to Katie and his parents.

Garrett is survived by his bride, Katie; his parents, Ashley and Chris; maternal grandfather, Bill Jones; paternal grandparents, Knox and Janelle Childers; his bride’s parents, Andrea Adams and Bill Ervin. He is preceded in death by his brother, Austin and his maternal grandmother, Diane Jones. Many thanks to Dr. Lowell Clark and Judy Gay, who provided years of loving care to both Austin and Garrett.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, September 29, 2018 at Ingleside Baptist Church. The family will greet friends following the service at the Gathering Area. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to First Presbyterian Day School, Austin and Garrett Childers Scholarship Fund, 5671 Calvin Drive, Macon, GA 31210.

Please visit www.hartsmort.com to express condolences.

Hart’s at the Cupola has charge of arrangements.

The family will greet friends following the service at the Gathering Area