Robert White Sr.

Robert White; son of the late Lafayette White and the late Esther Bassett, was born on July 27, 1922 in Danville, Virginia. He departed this life in Baltimore at Joseph Richey Hospice on October 2, 2014. Robert received his education in the public schools in Danville, Virginia. In 1943, he enlisted in the United States Army Airforce. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1946 after serving in WORLD WAR II. As a Private First Class he received 5 medals: American Theater Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Philippine Liberation Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and a WWII Victory Medal. While in the military he wrote a poem that was published in the newspaper and won a contest, after which he recorded as a song. He returned to Danville, married his wife, the late Jennetter Averette, and moved to Baltimore to begin their lives. He worked at Bethlehem Steel as a Shop Steward and Talley Clerk. He happily retired early in 1986. Prior to marriage, Robert had two children, Bernard Walters and Phyllis Crawley. From his union with his wife, Jennetter, seven children were born, Robert [r., Patricia, Carolyn, Earnest, Therman, Kevin, and Renee. As a teenager he was a member of a male quartet where he sang bass. He was an active member and Trustee of Bulah Baptist Church of Virginia. After moving to Baltimore, he attended First Emmanuel Baptist and later became a member. On June 22, 1996, he was ordained as Deacon. Robert was very active and committed to the Missionary Outreach Ministry cheerfully taking communion to members who could not come to church. He loved the Lord with all his heart, so much so, he could give you a scripture off the top of his head to help you through your situations. While living on Mt. Royal Terrace he was well liked by everyone in the neighborhood and truly respected by all the neighborhood kids who all addressed him as Mr. White. Whenever it rained they looked forward to getting a ride in the Ford station wagon. When it was cold he allowed the neighborhood kids to come to the house, to get warm before going home. He loved and adored his family. He continued to support and take care of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren until his health begin to decline in 2011 at the age of 89. Robert also took care of his grandmother until she passed away at the age of 98. Robert was an awesome husband. His wife never had to work a day of her life. She never needed or wanted for anything. He even cherished the relationship after death, addressing her as his wonderful wife until he died. His pleasant manner made all his nurses, children's co-workers, and friends address him as dad. In 2007, Robert was taken in by his youngest daughter Renee, who became his primary caretaker. In 2009 he met his soon to be son-in-law Arnold, who he adored and gave his blessings to marry his daughter. The two of them dedicated their lives to taking care of him until his death. Robert was often looked after by his daughter, Pat, and his two sons, Kevin and Robert Jr. Robert was also frequently visited by his grandchildren, Donnell (Jessica & Kids), Jeannette, Teresa and Tashia, who devoted their time and love. Deacon Robert White Sr., leaves to cherish his memory: his children, Robert White Jr. (Regina), Patricia Williams, Carolyn Foster, Therman White, Kevin White (Salimah), Renee Ford and his devoted son-in-law Arnold Ford, [r.: daughter-in-law Karen White (wife of the late Earnest White), Bernard Walters, Phyllis Crawley; 26 grandchildren, 30 great- grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandson; two dedicated nurses, Isi Itula and former nurse Regina Lee; devoted family member, Tony McCray; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Tributes

Robert White Sr.

July 27, 1922 - October 2, 2014