We invite you to join us in celebrating the life of Ron Childs, who passed away peacefully on January 10th, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on January 17 at 12:00 noon at the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, Tampa&mdash;Florida&rsquo;s oldest restaurant, renowned for its Cuban and Spanish cuisine.
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This will be a small, intimate gathering of family and friends as we enjoy delicious food and beverages while sharing stories, laughter, and cherished memories. Please join us in honoring our Dad, Ron, and giving him the wonderful send-off he truly deserves.
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Lunch will start promptly at 12:30 noon.
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Please RSVP by Wednesday January 14th 10:00 AM
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<a href="https://www.columbiarestaurant.com/view-all-locations" rel="nofollow">https://www.columbiarestaurant.com/view-all-locations</a>
<a href="https://www.columbiarestaurant.com/sancho-panza-dining-room-col" rel="nofollow">https://www.columbiarestaurant.com/sancho-panza-dining-room-col</a>

Celebration of Life

Jennifer Childs

Ron Childs

Stephanie  Childs

Ronald Sinclair Childs, known to all as Ron, was born on December 30, 1946, in Somers Point, New Jersey, and passed away peacefully on January 10th in Lakeland FL. He was a loving father, proud grandfather, devoted brother, and cherished friend whose kindness, curiosity, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. From an early age, Ron felt a deep connection to nature—especially the sea—which shaped the course of his life.
Ron lived a life of adventure and purpose, spending time in places that reflected his love for the ocean and exploration. He lived on the islands of San Andrés, Colombia; Culebra, Puerto Rico; and in Miami and Winter Haven, Florida, as well as Medellín, Colombia. A career diver, Ron collected tropical fish for sale and later dedicated his professional life to public service, working as Refuge Manager with Fish and Wildlife, as a Customs Officer for the US Customs, and as an Agriculture Inspector for the State of Florida. His work reflected both his respect for nature and his commitment to protecting it.
Ron found joy in good conversation, shared meals, and storytelling, often infused with humor and wisdom earned through a life well traveled. Above all, he was most proud of his family, and his love and guidance will continue to live on through them.
Ronald is survived by his brother, Donald Childs; his daughters, Jennifer Childs and Stephanie Childs; and his beloved grandchild, Jeralyn Kothari, along with extended family members and many friends whose lives he touched.
A Celebration of Life honoring Ron will take place on January 17 at 12:00 noon at the historic Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, Tampa, Florida’s oldest restaurant. Family and friends will gather to share stories, laughter, and a meal in remembrance of a life shaped by the sea and lived with purpose. Those wishing to honor Ron are invited to share memories, tributes, photos, and videos at www.mykeeper.com/RonChilds. Ron’s legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

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