FLANAGAN, ILLINOIS — The Livingston County community is mourning the death of Tony Ornez Childress, a former Livingston County sheriff and longtime public servant whose law enforcement career spanned more than three decades. Childress died on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, according to an announcement from the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office. He was 68, according to the information provided.
News of his passing has brought sadness to people who knew him through his years of law enforcement service, professional relationships, and connections throughout Livingston County.
More Than Three Decades in Law Enforcement
Childress began working with the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office in June 1991. Over the years, he served in several roles, including as a member of Task Force 6 and as a detective. He was promoted to sergeant in 2012, reflecting his years of service within the department.
His career later led him to the county’s highest elected law enforcement position, where he helped oversee public safety and law enforcement responsibilities across the community.
According to Childress, he was first elected sheriff in 2014 and won reelection in 2018.
Eight Years as Livingston County Sheriff
Childress served as Livingston County sheriff from 2014 until his retirement in 2022. During his eight-year tenure, he represented the county in a position responsible for public safety, law enforcement operations, and community service.
His time in office formed a significant part of his professional life, following decades of experience in the sheriff’s department.
For colleagues and community members who worked with him, his passing marks the loss of a former county leader whose career was closely connected to local law enforcement.
Community Mourns His Passing
The news of Childress’s death has brought sadness to Livingston County, where his years of service connected him with colleagues and residents throughout the area.
His career reflected a longstanding commitment to law enforcement, beginning in 1991 and continuing through his election as sheriff and eventual retirement.
As former colleagues and community members reflect on his life, his decades of public service remain a central part of his legacy.
Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
At the time of the announcement reported by 25News Now on October 14, 2026, funeral and memorial arrangements had not yet been released. The sheriff’s office said information about services would be shared when it became available.
Further details about arrangements may be provided by the family or the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office.
The Livingston County community extends its condolences to Childress’s family, friends, former colleagues, and everyone affected by his passing.
Tony Ornez Childress will be remembered for his decades of service to Livingston County and his years as the county’s elected sheriff. May his loved ones find comfort and strength as they mourn his loss.
