Mertis Teel Childress, a lifelong resident of Robertsdale, went to Heaven on Jan. 13, 2017. She was born in Opp, Alabama on March 10, 1918.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel Leamon and Dellie Harrison Teel; husband, Guy "Duel" Childress; brother, Roy Teel; sister, Marjorie Teel Youngblood; and nephew, Danny Youngblood.
She is survived by nieces and nephews, Sandra Teel Clark, Nancy Teel Strube, Eddie, Paul, J.W., Tony, Pam Youngblood Lane, Robert and Terry Youngblood. Along with numerous great- and great-great nieces and nephews.
She was affectionately called Aunt Mertis, by both her family and community. Although she did not have any children of her own, she was actively involved in the lives of her nieces and nephews.
Also she was activity involved in community activities in many ways. Aunt Mertis was a fun-loving, talented woman who had parties for every occasion.
She was a full-time farmer's wife and worked part time at the M & F store in Robertsdale and had many fond memories of her time there. She was a lifelong member of the Robertsdale United Methodist Church.
She was chosen Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year in 1990. She was chosen Featured Quilter in 2007 at Robertsdale UMC to highlight her quilts. She belonged to many community organizations, including the Robertsdale Home Demonstration Club where she served as the Baldwin County president for many years.
She helped organize the town's Christmas parade. She was a vital part of the Ladies Tea Party which benefitted the RHS Alumni Scholarship fund. She was also head of the Women's Auxiliary for the Sportsman's Hunting Club and was active in the Rosinton Farmer's Club.
She participated in the Annual Dinner of the Robertsdale Livestock Auction, with her cake going for the highest bid for 20 years.
One of her favorite events was the Baldwin County Fair, where she entered her canned goods and sewing/crafts. She prepared one or more booths for the 66 consecutive years that the fair has existed, winning blue ribbons every time and winning Best of Show most recently.
Another favorite activity was hosting the Ole Ladies Sewing Circle every week in her home.
A memorial service will be held Monday, Jan. 16, 2017 at Mack Funeral Home, at 2 p.m. with graveside services to follow.
Visitation will be prior at 12:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, you may make donations to the Robertsdale High School Alumni Association, P.O. Box 1458, Robertsdale, AL 36567. A scholarship will be set up in her honor.
Arrangements by Mack Funeral Home, Robertsdale.
