Vernelle Smith Childress, 78, of Oakville Road, Appomattox, died Friday morning September 14, 2012 at her residence. She was the wife of Calvin A. Childress for fifty-six years.

Vernelle was born in Appomattox County on December 22, 1933 a daughter of Sallie Mable Guill and John Andrew Smith, Sr. She was a member of Reedy Spring Baptist Church and a retired employee of Amelia Dress Company.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by two brothers, Moses W. (Dick) Smith of Appomattox, Wiley H. Smith and wife, Lois of Spout Spring; a sister, Reva S. Cruise, Glen Burnie, MD; sister-in-law, Mable D. Smith of Appomattox; numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by six sisters, Viola Mayberry, Florence Doss, Octavia Hawkins, Thelma Grishaw, Colyer Weatherholtz and Willie Perdieu; and three brothers, James (Jimbo) Smith, Jack Smith and John Smith.

Funeral Service will be held on Monday September 17, 2012 at 11:00 AM from Robinson Funeral Home officiated by the Rev. Jerry Childress, Rev. Steve Flowers and the Rev. John Muth. Burial will follow in Liberty Cemetery

The family will receive friends at the funeral home today (Sunday) from 6-7:30 PM and other times at the residence.

Those wishing to make memorials please consider Centra Hospice-Farmville, 713 Oak Street, Farmville, VA 23901.

Robinson Funeral Home and Cremation Service is serving the family and an online condolence may be sent by visiting www.robinsonfuneral.com