James Renee Childs

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Renee Childs, age 25, of Grayton Beach, Florida, on January 7, 2025. James was a bright, compassionate young man whose life was tragically cut short.

James was born on October 31, 1999, in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, to Shelby Renee Altamura and James Frederick Childs. Welcomed into the world as the first “Beau Rivage Baby,” he lived with his mother, Shelby, until age 12, then with his father in Biloxi, and went on to graduate from Biloxi High School in 2018. Following school, James moved to live with his mother and his stepfather, Jim, on 30A and worked in the hospitality industry for some of the area’s most well-known establishments.

A beloved son, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, James was known from a young age for his infectious smile and ability to make others feel at ease. His laughter was contagious, and his positive energy had a way of brightening any room.

James was a passionate and inquisitive lover of history and books, with an eagerness to learn, who found immense joy in creativity. He was a talented self-taught artist and photographer, musician and prolific songwriter, with a catalog of over 100 original songs.

James is survived by his mother, Shelby (Jim) Altamura and father, Freddie Childs; his “Grammy,” maternal grandmother, Kathy Palmer; his paternal grandfather, Mark Childs; his aunts, Ashley (Jerry) Pfeiffer, Tracy (Mike) Moon, and Andie Jean Childs; his uncle, Josh Palmer; his girlfriend, Lauren Wentworth; as well as a host of loving cousins and close friends.

While his time on Earth was far too brief and he will be deeply missed, James had given his life to Christ at the young age of 12 and now sits in the presence of his Heavenly Father. His impact on those who knew him will live on and his memory will be forever cherished. May he rest in peace.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at The Chapel of 30A, followed by a gathering at 3:00 p.m. for friends and family at the Vue Restaurant, 4801 W. County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.

We welcome you to provide your thoughts and memories on our Tribute Wall.

PLEASE NOTE: The livestream screen will populate to the time zone you are in and may differ from the announced central time zone service.  If you are using a desktop computer to livestream the service, please “TURN MUSIC OFF” under the photo on this page.