Carolyn Boyette Childress

AIKEN, SC – Mrs. Docia Carolyn Boyett Childress, 88, beloved wife of James Douglas “Jim” Childress, passed away on Sunday, November 8, 2026.

Born in Clinton, NC, Carolyn was the daughter of the late Joseph Larkin and Clara Mae Stout Boyette. Following her high school graduation, Carolyn met Jim while he was stationed in Nuremberg, Germany. Their meeting began a lifelong partnership, and together they built a wonderful life and raised their family. Prior to her time in Germany, Carolyn worked as a teacher in the Fairfax County School District for several years.

Carolyn and Jim made Aiken their home in 1998, where they quickly became active members of the community. She was a member of Millbrook Baptist Church and generously volunteered at Christ Central, where she enjoyed tutoring children. She and Jim were also members of Houndslake Country Club. She loved traveling throughout Europe, Canada, and the United States. She also enjoyed horseback riding, golfing, and playing bridge. Carolyn dedicated her life to caring for others, finding joy and purpose in helping people whenever she could.

In addition to her husband, Jim, Carolyn is survived by her two sons, James Douglas Childress, Jr. of Tucson, AZ, and Joseph Gregory (Melissa) Childress of Springfield, IL, and her beloved granddaughter, Savannah Rose Childress.

In addition to her parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by her brother, James Thomas Boyette, and his wife, Wanda Lou Boyette.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home, Inc., 715 E. Pine Log Rd. The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Millbrook Baptist Church's Building Fund, 223 S. Aiken Blvd., Aiken, SC 29803.

SHELLHOUSE-RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 715 E. PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC 29803.