Russell Henry James Childs

August 30, 1968 - February 24, 2025

Russell Henry James Childs (“Henry”) passed away on February 24, 2025 in New York City. Born on August 30, 1968 in Manhattan, Henry is survived by his loving fiancé Lora Franks and dog George Jefferson Childs, his children Venus and Luna Childs (Taen), his brother Edward Childs (Nancy), his sister Martha (Xavier,) his nieces Sarah Kate, Emily, Isabelle (Guillaum) Caroline (Aileen), nephews John and William, and great nephew Alfie, in addition to many cousins. Henry is predeceased by his parents, Lucy Lee Fitzgerald Gant and Theodore Quentin Childs.

Henry graduated from St Paul’s High School, Garden City and Randolph-Macon College, Ashland, Virginia. Throughout his time in Virginia, he was active in the Masonic Lodge. While New York was his home, he had a great love for the North Carolina dunes and spending time at his family’s beach house. He knew his way around a boat like a seasoned captain – he raced on International One Design Sailboats, and was also an avid fisherman. Henry could fix and build just about anything and took great enjoyment in doing so. He had a passion for going to flea markets and finding great bargains that he could restore. He was known for his ability to drive great bargains for $5.00, known in the family as “Henry Units,” where one Henry Unit = $5.

Henry fiercely loved his family and his countless friends, which he would often bring together with his love of barbeque, and all things meat-related. He was an incredible cook and loved grilling and cooking for his friends and family. He was also a KCBS Barbeque Judge. 

Henry’s love of dogs was paramount, not only for his dog George who he rescued and loved dearly, but all dogs. He was a “dog whisperer” and there was never a dog – friend or stranger – that didn’t gravitate to Henry above anyone else. With that in mind, in lieu of flowers, please donate directly to: New Britain Animal Control, 642 Christian Lane, Berlin CT 06037 or fulfill a gift from their Amazon wish list. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3OD0ER7CUSQCD/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1