James Lee White's Obituary
The Reverend Dr. James Lee White, lovingly known as Fr. Jim, passed away peacefully at home in Lewes, Delaware, on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at the age of 78. A devoted Episcopal priest, pastor, husband, father, and grandfather, Fr. Jim will be remembered for his kind spirit, unwavering faith, and passion for serving others.
He had a remarkable gift for seeing the world through a lens of boundless optimism. Ever quick with a joke – perhaps the original pioneer of “Dad Jokes” – his warm personality and radiant smile could light up any room, drawing people of all ages to him. He truly loved being surrounded by others, and it was clear that the feeling was mutual – people simply loved being around him.
Born on November 27, 1946, in Litchfield, Illinois, to Forrest White and Lucille Bierschenk White, Fr. Jim grew up on a farm in El Paso, Illinois, as the second of seven siblings. From an early age, he demonstrated a strong work ethic and love for learning, spending his early years working as an auto mechanic before enlisting in the Army. During his service in Germany (1966–1969), Fr. Jim began taking college courses through the University of Maryland European Division, igniting a lifelong commitment to education and service.
After returning to Illinois, he continued his studies at Illinois State University. While serving as a sexton at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Bloomington, Illinois, he felt a profound call to ministry. He pursued his calling at Lexington Episcopal Theological Seminary in Kentucky, earning his Master of Divinity in 1973. Over the next decade, Fr. Jim served congregations across Newfoundland, Kentucky, Iowa, and Michigan, bringing compassion, wisdom, and spiritual guidance to every community he touched.
In 1982, Fr. Jim married Gale at Christ Episcopal Church in Rockville, Maryland. Together, they built a life filled with love, faith, and adventure. When not serving as a priest, Fr. Jim worked as an estimator for a homebuilder in Gaithersburg, Maryland, which allowed the couple to spend weekends at the Delaware shore. There, they enjoyed fishing, crabbing, and walking on the beaches, making memories that would last a lifetime.
In 1996, Fr. Jim earned his Ph.D. and Doctor of Divinity, deepening his commitment to both ministry and scholarship. In 1998, he and Gale relocated to Lewes, Delaware, where Fr. Jim continued his ministry, serving at various churches in Delaware and Maryland, including an extended tenure at Christ Church, Milford. He officially retired in 2013 due to health reasons but remained active in the Order of St. Luke and continued to inspire others with his faith and devotion.
A man of many talents and interests, Fr. Jim was a gifted woodworker, fisherman, HAM radio operator, cook, and baker. His creations, from hand-carved pieces to delicious meals, reflected his love for his family and the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures.
Fr. Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Gale; his loving daughters, Rachael (Chris) Staab and Jerusha White; his cherished grandchildren, Delaney and Latham Staab, and Emma (Tyler) Sisco; his brothers and sisters; his nieces and nephews; his cousins, as well as countless friends who will carry his memory in their hearts. He is now reunited with his grandson, Cameron Staab, who has gone before him and was surely waiting at the gates of Heaven to lead the way, hand in hand. Finally, Jim cherished his beloved poodles, Maggie and Gracie, for nine wonderful years. These fur babies offered him the deepest companionship and filled his life with love and joy.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 18, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 200 2nd St., Lewes, Delaware, followed by a luncheon in the parish hall. Those unable to attend may view the service via livestream at https://www.youtube.com/live/Wn-xFHfo3iI?si=_si8IxBqhCbyuynr.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Fr. Jim’s memory to the Outreach Fund (memo line), St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 422, Millsboro, Delaware 19966. Online condolences may be shared with the family at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
Fr. Jim’s life was a testament to love, faith, and service. His legacy will continue to shine brightly through the lives he touched and the communities he served.
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