Obituary of Winona Fay Gorman Childress

Winona Fay (Gorman) Childress, age 83, of Whitney, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025, and went to the Lord surrounded by her loving family in Grapevine, Texas. Born on April 9, 1941, in Corsicana, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Jesse Albert and Jessie Juanita Gorman of Corsicana, Texas.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Winona shared 63 years of marriage with her beloved husband, James Thomas Childress. Their partnership was defined by unwavering love, support, and the creation of a life full of cherished memories. Winona was a proud Daughter of the American Revolution, and her strength, resilience, and Texas spirit were felt by all who knew her. Her quiet strength and steadfast nature embodied the "Texas Tough" mentality that she carried with her throughout her life.

Winona graduated from Corsicana High School in 1959, where she was honored as her high school queen during her senior year, a reflection of her beauty, grace, and leadership.  In her earlier years, Winona found joy in gardening, cooking, and traveling—hobbies that reflected her nurturing nature and zest for life. She took great pride in creating a warm and welcoming home for her loved ones.  Winona’s professional life was equally marked by dedication and service. She worked as City Secretary for the Town of Pantego for 10 years, always demonstrating a strong sense of duty and commitment to her community.

Her greatest joy was always her family. Winona married her husband, Tom, on November 4^th, 1961 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Corsicana, Texas and together they raised two sons, John Michael Childress and James Timothy Childress.  Winona is preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Albert and Juanita Gorman, and her brother, Albert “Bud” Ray Gorman.  She is survived by her husband, Tom, sister, Vicky Gorman of Mesquite, Texas, oldest son, John and his wife Christina of Colleyville, Texas, grandchildren Payton Faye Childress of Bozeman, Montana, and Joseph Miles Childress of Colleyville, Texas and youngest son, Tim of Arlington, Texas, and many loving nieces, nephews and brothers and sisters-in laws.

Winona leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and strength. She will be deeply missed by her husband, sons, grandchildren, extended family, and all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Graveside Service and burial will be held to honor her life at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 8^th, at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 2300-2310 W. Second Avenue in Corsicana, Texas.