Tributes

Robert “Bob” F. Childs, III age 84 of Surfside Beach passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025 at his residence. Born in Washington DC, he was a son of the late Robert F. Childs II and Mary Kowalsky Childs. He retired after 37 years of service on Capitol Hill. His government career began in 1960 in the electrical engineering department under the Architect of the Capitol, working on the inauguration of President Kennedy. In 1961, he assisted in wiring the House for sound. In 1970, he worked on the Senate's very first sound system, and in 1973, he became the supervisor for the sound systems of both Chambers. He had overall supervisory responsibility in the House for its operations and for the TV lighting in the Chamber during all joint sessions. During the 105th Session of Congress in 1998, a tribute was paid to him on the occasion of his retirement, House Majority Leader Armey stated: "His eagerness to share his knowledge, combined with the skill and integrity always present in carrying out his duties, leaves us at a loss on many levels. He can easily be classified as a resource, and we know all too well that a resource is rarely appreciated until it is no longer available. But in Bob's case, we want to let him know how much he has meant to us in this institution and to convey our thanks for a job well done for 37 years." Bob was the Mayor of Surfside Beach from 2016-2020 and served on the Surfside Beach Town Council from 2008 - 2012 and again 2014 - 2016. He served on the Board of Directors for the Horry County Council on Aging and the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments since 2014, where he was the treasurer and served on the personnel committee as well as the audit and finance committee. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Nancy Yount Childs, and a brother, Dwight Childs. Surviving are his two daughters, Jennifer Childs and Christa Childs, and his son, James Childs. His sister, Juanita Childs Braun, also survives. Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Goldfinch Funeral Home, Beach Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Robert's name to the National Kidney Foundation at: https://support.kidney.org Goldfinch Funeral Home, Beach Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Tributes

Robert "Bob" Franklin Childs III

August 2, 1940 - May 30, 2025