Dr. Hoyt A. Childs, Jr., MD, known affectionately as Hoyt, Jr to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, in Geneva, Alabama. Born on August 21, 1945, in Atlanta, Georgia, Hoyt was a man of exceptional intellect, kindness especially to his patients, and generosity, whose life was marked by his commitment to medicine, his family, and his church.
Hoyt’s journey began as a bright young student in Samson, Alabama, where he graduated from Samson High School. His passion for medicine led him to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine. Hoyt’s medical career was distinguished by his service in the US Navy in Charleston, South Carolina, and his dual board certification in Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine. For 34 years, he practiced pediatric medicine with a gentle hand and a warm heart in Fairhope, Alabama, before dedicating another decade to emergency medicine in Huntsville.
Beyond his professional achievements, Hoyt was a man deeply rooted in his Christian faith. He was a faithful member of Samson First Methodist Church, where he shared his musical talents as the organist for many years. His love for music extended to playing the piano, a pastime that brought joy to many gatherings and quiet moments alike.
Hoyt’s love for life was evident in his varied interests. He found solace in the beauty of nature, often spending time planting flowers and immersing himself in the outdoors. A lifelong learner, he enjoyed reading and had a particular fascination with foreign languages. His compassionate spirit was also reflected in his love for animals, a trait that endeared him to all creatures great and small.
Hoyt’s legacy is carried on by his loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Sandra H. Childs of Samson, AL; his sons, Hoyt A. “Tres” Childs, III (Christy) of Huntsville, AL, and Thomas Childs (Gladys) of Ft. Worth, TX; his cherished grandchildren, Abbie, Sarah Kate, Megan, Baylee, and Scott Childs; his siblings, Dr. Hayden Childs (Jule), Patricia “Trish” Janasky (Ed), and Dr. Rich Childs (Dr. Mitzi); and a host of special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Hoyt Abner Childs, Sr. and Ouida Weekes Childs.
A celebration of life service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Samson First Methodist Church with his niece, Julia Gibbs, Rev. Dean Moore, and Rev. Dustin Wise officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens with Warren Holloway Ward Funeral Home of Geneva, AL directing.
Warren~Holloway~Ward Funeral Home (334) 684-9999, is in charge of arrangements. “Continuing The Trust You’ve Placed In Us” To sign a guest register, please visit: www.whwfuneralhome.com
