Donald "Don" Ray White

Donald R. White, 86, passed away December 23, 2018. He was born in Oakland City, Indiana, to Roland and Norma White. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War, where he was stationed on the USS Valley Forge and the USS Enterprise. While in the Navy, he married the love of his life, Jenny Benson, and then moved to Manatee County in 1956. After his service in the Navy, Don worked for General Telephone before being employed by the City of Palmetto for over 20 years, where he retired. He led a full and adventurous life, and had many stories to tell about his adventures. He was an active member of Manatee Baptist Church for 44 years, where he served his Lord in many ways throughout the years, teaching Sunday School and Bible School, serving as a deacon, volunteering in the food pantry, and being a greeter for those attending his church. He had a kind, gentle spirit, and was loved by so many. His faith, courage, and quiet strength, even during adversity, will forever be an example for his family and friends. He had a twinkle in his eye, and saw the humor in everyday life. He instilled a love of the outdoors and animals in his children. Don, Jenny, and their three daughters spent every summer camping, and after retirement, he and Jenny travelled and camped all over the United States each year, visiting 47 states and Canada. Don had many interests and hobbies – hunting, fishing, camping, horses, Sudoku puzzles (he completed one book every week), and spending time in his workshop. He was a skilled mechanic, and could make anything out of seemingly nothing. Don is predeceased by his precious wife of 62 years, Jenny; his parents; and his brother and sister-in-law, Ronnie and Christy White. He is survived by his brother, Jerry White (Bunny) of Sebring, FL; devoted daughters, Sheri Giddens (Ed) of Bradenton; Cindy Redmon (David) of Brandenburg, KY; and Pam McSwain (Steve), of Louisville, KY. He was a loving Papaw to seven grandchildren, Kyle Giddens (Dawn); Erin Elsenheimer (David); Amanda Perry; Alex Redmon (Sarah); Caleb Redmon (Tabitha); Phillip Orr (Kayla); and Allison McGarry (Aaron); and 14 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Mary Lou Wilson (Elvis) of Brandon, FL; sister-in-law, Ruth Bratton, of Owensville, IN; cousins and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Monday, December 31, 2018, at Groover Funeral Home at Mansion Memorial Park, 1400 36th Ave. E., Ellenton, FL. Visitation will be from 10 – 11am; service will begin at 11am. Fellowship and food will be provided at Manatee Baptist Church immediately after the service for friends and family. Online condolences to the family can be offered at Groover-funeral-home.com. Don was a devoted husband, perfect father, and much-loved Papaw. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7. “His Master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ Matthew 25:21. Flowers can be sent to Groover Funeral Home or donations can be made in lieu of flowers to Manatee Baptist Church.