Michelle Townsend Childress of Bristol, Va., passed away on Friday, June 24, 2016, at Grayson Highlands State Park, at the age of 61.
Born October 5, 1954 in Bristol, Va., Michelle lived her entire life in the TriCities. She graduated from John S. Battle High School, before pursuing undergraduate studies at Virginia Intermont College, and graduate studies at East Tennessee State University. During her 34-year public school teaching career, she taught elementary school and was an instructional technology resource teacher for the Washington County Virginia School System. After retirement, she taught as an adjunct professor for the East Tennessee State University Education Department, and was the Director of Instructional Design at King University for a brief period. Michelle was an avid photographer, geocacher and equestrian, constantly riding with the Carolina Mule Association. She was a loving wife, mother, mentor, and friend who will be missed by all.
She was preceded in death by her father, Roy Townsend.
Michelle is survived by her husband of 27 years, Ken Childress; son, Logan Childress; mother, Juanita Townsend; brother, Dawson Townsend; niece, Melissa Horton; and nephew, Anthony Townsend. She also left behind several animals whom she loved greatly: two mules, Cash and Scout; a horse, Hank; and four dogs, Dexter, Iris, Petri and Nell.
A memorial and celebration of her life will be held on July 16 in Grayson County, Va., for close family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, via http://bit.ly/MichelleChildressDonate. Online condolences may be registered at www.weaverfuneralhome.net.
Arrangements have been made with Weaver Funeral Home and Cremation Services.