Frederick Woodrow Childers

Dr. Frederick Woodrow Childers, DSW, LCSW, Professor Emeritus of Social Work at California State University, Fresno, died on September 22, 2024, at the age of 84. A long-time resident of Clovis, California, Fred was a passionate educator and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He led a life of steadfast dedication to his family, students, colleagues, and patients, profoundly influencing the well-being of those around him. Fred was a caring, generous person with bright blue eyes, a quiet confidence, and a hardworking demeanor.

Born on October 6, 1939, in Fruitvale, Colorado (near Grand Junction), Fred was the youngest of two sons of Ruth (Collins) and Woodrow Childers. While remaining a Coloradan at heart, Fred and his family relocated to Lakewood, California during his youth. He was a natural athlete, and at Bellflower High, football and baseball were his sports. Eventually, Fred chose to leave the field to pursue a career helping others. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University, Long Beach. Fred went on to proudly earn both his Master of Social Work and Doctor of Social Work from the University of Southern California and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Louisiana.

Fred had a distinguished and multifaceted career in which he balanced his work as a professor, researcher, consultant, and therapist. He began his academic career as a lecturer at San Diego State and San Jose State. Later, Fred served as an assistant professor at Louisiana State University, before earning a tenured position at Fresno State. As a professor and researcher, he taught graduate-level courses, research, and mentored social work students for 23 years before retiring as Professor Emeritus.

For over 50 years in private practice, Fred worked with individuals, families, and groups, helping clients navigate challenges, transitions, and joys. He held leadership roles in children and family service agencies, providing clinical supervision, conducting training, and contributing to mental health research. As an expert in his field, Fred was recognized as a Board-Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work by the American Board of Examiners. His knowledge was sought by the California State Board of Behavioral Sciences, where he helped shape the licensing examination process for social workers. Fred was a devoted consultant to the Fresno Vet Center, where he provided counseling and support to military veterans for 30 years.

Outside of work, Fred was proud of his family. He enjoyed traveling and family trips that included camping, boating, and fishing. These were activities that connected Fred to those around him with shared experiences through quality time. Some of his favorite trips varied from exploring the beautiful California coast to the highlands of Scotland. Fred had a love of cars and motorcycles and he enjoyed taking them on drives to appreciate their craftsmanship and engineering. While out on the road he delighted in diverse musical favorites such as Pavarotti and Willie Nelson. His appreciation for craftsmanship extended to his love for woodwork, fine pens, and any object that told a story of skill and artistry. An avid reader, Fred enjoyed biographies and history books, learning about the personalities of historical figures and the context of the times they lived in. He loved to catch up with friends, family, and colleagues over a good cup of coffee, and many will remember him enjoying a nice cigar.

Fred is survived by his wife of 47 years, Deidre (McCammon) Childers; his five children: Sidney (Carolyn), Kathryn, Bryndahl, Ryan (Julia), and Spencer (Elizabeth); two grandchildren: Alyssa and Noah; his older brother, Clark; and two nieces, Carrie and Julie. He leaves behind the social work community that he helped to shape. His legacy touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, and clients. Those who knew Fred will remember his kindness, his calming and contemplative demeanor, his thoughtful words, and his quiet laugh.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations in Fred’s memory be directed to Vista Del Mar Child and Family Services, the Fresno Vet Center or a charity that reminds you of Fred.