Memorial services for Democratic candidate Eric Childs scheduled for Tuesday in Anderson

Services for Eric Childs, combat veteran and Democratic candidate for South Carolina’s House of Representatives, will take place Tuesday.

Childs, 39, died of injuries suffered in an early morning crash on Augusta Road at Lickeville Road in Pelzer on May 31.

Visitation and a memorial service begin at 5 p.m. at Bleckley Station, 310 S. Main St., in Anderson.

His wife, Jessicka Spearman, also a Democratic candidate for South Carolina Senate District 3, announced his death in a statement last week.

“The loss of my beloved husband, Eric Childs, in last night’s car accident has left me devastated. Eric was not just a devoted husband and loving father, but also a courageous combat veteran who served his country with honor. He believed fervently in South Carolina where everyone could be free, prosperous, and happy, which is why he was running for the South Carolina House of Representatives," Spearman said. "His commitment to our family and the families of South Carolina has reignited my determination to run for and win a seat in the South Carolina State Senate, carrying forward Eric’s legacy of service and compassion.”

Childs enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 17 on March 19, 2003, the same day U.S. forces began military operations in Iraq. He earned multiple medals for his combat service, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.

The father of five often advocated for LGBTQ rights. Most recently, he urged state legislators to vote “no” on the bill that banned certain medical care for transgender youth, telling lawmakers he was a “very proud father of a trans child” and how he believed the American dream was designed for all people, including transgender residents.

He is survived by his wife, his children, Natalia, Ray, Tennessee, Alana, and Cole, and his brothers Brick, Matt, H.P., Parker, and Josh.

Savannah Moss covers politics for the Greenville News. Reach her at smoss@gannett.com or follow her on X @Savmoss.