In Loving Memory of Ralph Clellan White

January 18, 1930 – February 22, 2025

Ralph Clellan White peacefully went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 22, 2025. He was 95 years of age.

Born at the dawn of the Great Depression on January 18, 1930, in Henderson, North Carolina, Dad was the beloved only child of John Clellan White and Betty Finch White. His early years in Henderson instilled in him a deep and abiding love for his home state. And of Carolina pork barbecue and Brunswick stew. And sweet tea.

After graduating from Henderson High School, Dad attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He enjoyed everything the college life had to offer, except maybe studying. When he figured out college may not be for him, he joined the United States Air Force. His service during the Korean War took him to many places, including post-war Germany. During his time in the Air Force, on Christmas Day in 1950, he married Barbara Bowling of Middleburg, North Carolina.

Dad's professional life reflected his natural leadership, first in banking, then in electronics. Dad had an infectious positivity that made him the kind of person who never met a stranger. His love for golf was rivaled only by his love for ice cream—and, of course, happy hour. Not necessarily in that order.

Dad knew Jesus as his Lord and Savior, and his faith became more important to him later in life. He was a member of Denton Bible Church, where he served as an usher for many years. Dad was a longtime active member of Gideon's International.

Dad is survived by his loving children: David White of Denton, Texas; Jere White and Carlyn White of Cleburne, Texas; Linda Wiece and Steve Wiece of Crystal River, Florida; Ken White and Leslie White of Tyler, Texas; and Kevin White and Carla White of Tyler, Texas. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Kim McGuirk and Mike McGuirk of Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York; and Todd and Michelle England of Concord, North Carolina. He leaves behind twelve grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren who will cherish their memories of their Pa.  He was preceded in death by his second wife, Judi, and his parents, Clel and Betty.

A private service will be held at a later date. We will miss you dearly, Dad, until we join you beyond the river!