Cindy Lu Childress Carlock

Heaven welcomed an energetic new angel on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024, as Cindy Lu Childress Carlock entered the gates after battling pneumonia and septic infection.

Cindy was born Jan. 7, 1967, in Memphis, Tenn., to Gailya and Robert M “Red” Childress of Blytheville. A 1985 graduate of Blytheville High School, Cindy was a talented gymnast winning state championships as a junior and senior and achieving All American status. She went on to attend Arkansas State University where she was a cheerleader for the Indians, now Red Wolves. She graduated with a degree in marketing in 1989. Her marketing skills reflected her exuberant personality as she worked in executive positions at Backyard Burgers and Sonic while in Memphis and then again for the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery in 2009 when the boys began school.

Cindy was married to J. Craig Carlock and they made their home in Blytheville. They were tireless advocates for the care of animals, worked with the Humane Society and supported the Cooter, Mo., school system where their sons attended. She remained a steadfast supporter of ASU and especially enjoyed returning for cheerleader reunions. She was a member of PEO Chapter C1, the Blytheville Country Club and a lifelong member the First United Methodist Church in Blytheville.

Cindy was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Robert M. Childress, Jr.

Left to cherish her memories (and there are many) are her husband, Craig, of Blytheville; sons, Jett Carlock and Cade Carlock of Jonesboro; sisters, Gaye Anne Ward (John) and Becky Garlington (Troy) of Benton; uncle, Victor Ray Stilwell (Suzy) of Waterford, Miss., and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive visitors at 1 p.m. Jan. 4, 2025, before a 2 p.m. celebration of Cindy’s life at the First United Methodist Church, Main Street, Blytheville, followed by a reception at the Taylor House, 811 W. Main St., Blytheville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered to the Humane Society of Blytheville, the ASU Foundation in Jonesboro or the First United Methodist Church of Blytheville.