Memorial Service
Residence
106 Hand Lane
Lake Jackson, TX  77566
Saturday, January 4, 2020
2:00pm
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Larry "Popi" Neil Childs

of Clute, TX

September 2, 1933 - December 27, 2019


  • Obituary
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Larry was born to Willie Otho and Fanny Bea (York) Childs, Fairfield, TX, on September 2, 1933. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 27th, 2019 at Woodlake Nursing and Rehab Facility, in Clute, TX.

Larry's last breath on earth was his first breath in heaven where he is now re-united with his parents, his loving wife of 62 years, Dora Belle McLester of Rockport TX, his youngest daughter, Robbie Kay Childs, and two sisters Toni Jackson, and Ruby Capps. He leaves behind two daughters, Roxanne (Bill) Dacy and Rhonda (Mark) Geissler, Lake Jackson, Tx, as well as four grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and his younger brother W.O. (Carol) Childs, LaPorte, TX.

Larry served 2 years of active duty in Germany 1954-1956 as PFC1, and another 6 years in the US Army Reserves in Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Sam Houston State University leading to 35 years with Phillips Petroleum where he finished as Environmental Director of the Sweeny, TX Refinery. Included were three life impacting years in Puerto Rico, where his ready interactions with the local people and culture resulted in lifelong friendships and an enduring love and knowledge of tropical plant horticulture. "He was a long time member of the Sierra Club, and an environmentalist when being one wasn't cool.

Larry was a tall, quiet man who communicated his special brand of dry humor most often with facial expressions rather than words. His love for his family was never in doubt. He was a get-her-done kind of man, building his own home and landscaping it with an array of exotic tropical plants grown in his home built green house, raising Longhorn steers on his 30 acre Sweeny ranch, and renovating his retirement home in Canyon Lake. He enjoyed reading, golfing, knife making, slipping table scraps to his dog, and especially playing Santa Claus at family Christmas as our beloved Popi. We will miss him very much.

The family wishes to thank the HCT (Hospice Care Team), and the nurses and staff at Woodlake Nursing and Rehab, and at Carriage Inn who provided Popi such tender and loving care.

A memorial gathering of friends and family will be held on Saturday, January 4, starting at 2:00 PM at 106 Hand Lane, Lake Jackson, TX. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to your favorite charity in Larry's name.

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6 Condolence(s)
Stephanie Martin
Ingram, TX
Friday, January 3, 2020

Uncle Larry was a cool cat! With his own personality. So glad I got to see him before he got bad. Love you uncle Larry ❤️

Liz White (and Scott)
Caldwell, ID
Wednesday, January 1, 2020

My Uncle Larry had a life well lived! I remember well those facial expressions they mentioned. lol He was quietly funny. My condolences to Rhonda, Roxanne and all the family. Sending our love...

Randy Jackson
Manvel, TX
Wednesday, January 1, 2020

I have very fond memories of "The Land" as we called it, which was the ranch in Sweeny and my uncle Larry was a big part of those memories. He helped teach me how to love the outdoors and appreciate what nature gives us which I have in turn passed on to my children. Lydia and I send our respects and condolences to the rest of the family.

Sixto Ortiz, Sr.
Bartlesville, OK
Wednesday, January 1, 2020

Larry was a long time friend since we met in Puerto Rico while working at the Phillips Puerto Rico Core Petrochemical Plant. He had a gentle soul and a positive attitude towards all he encountered. I do not think he would be offended by saying that he had a true, good Puerto Rican heart. May God bless him and I am sure he is in heaven making new friends. I just hope that one day, the Lord will allow me to see him again. I am sorry that I cannot be there but my spirit and prayers are with all of his family at this time of sadness. May God Bless and Comfort you all.

Vicki Vogler
Brazoria, TX
Wednesday, January 1, 2020

I worked with Larry at Phillips Petroleum during my summer breaks from Sam Houston. We played several games of trash can basketball and occasionally got some reports done. He was always a pleasure to see his smiling faces every morning. So sorry to hear about his passing. Prayers to his family.

Mark Geissler
Lake Jackson, TX
Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Love ya Larry. I hope you are enjoying sweet reunions Doe and all the family and getting to know Jesus as the King of Kings.