Katie BaileyThe League is deeply saddened by the loss of Terry Ray Childress, a beloved member of our credit union family and a longtime executive of the Virginia Credit Union League. Terry dedicated more than four decades to serving and strengthening Virginia’s credit unions through his leadership, vision, and commitment to collaboration.
Joining the Virginia Credit Union League in 1977, Terry played a central role in the development of many of the services and partnerships that continue to support credit unions today. As Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, he helped launch Virginia’s shared branching network, guided the Virginia Credit Union League’s service corporation, and led with a spirit of innovation and purpose.
He also served on numerous national and regional boards and committees, including Credit Union 24, the Credit Union Service Corporation, and the Federal Reserve Operations Committee, where his expertise and cooperative mindset helped shape industrywide progress.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Terry will be remembered for his warmth, his generosity, and the meaningful relationships he built over the years. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Bonnie, and their daughter, Kaydence, who were the greatest joys of his life.
A visitation will be held Thursday, August 7, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. ET at Tharp Funeral Home in Lynchburg. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Old City Cemetery.
Terry’s legacy lives on in the movement he helped build, the leaders he mentored, and the countless lives he touched.
