Walter Howard White III

Walter Howard White III, age 78, passed away on February 2, 2025 after a year-long struggle with various physical issues precipitated by a devastating case of disseminated shingles. Walter was pre-deceased by his parents, Walter Howard White, Jr. and Dorothy Dutton White, by his brother, Raymond Dutton White, and by his first wife, Jonelle Parsley White. He is survived by his wife of thirty-nine years, Susan Hammonds-White, his sons, Wesley Howard White and Matthew Helton White (Lauren), and his daughter, Christiana Marie White Berryessa (Steven), as well as his grandson, Dominic Helton White, and his granddaughters, Lucy Beth and Cora Lindsay Berryessa.

Walter was born in Nashville, TN and lived in many parts of the South. He graduated from MTSU in 1969, worked as an insurance agent for GAB, and then became a teacher. His fondest memories of teaching were the years he spent at Castle Heights Military Academy (1975-1985). He also taught in Nashville Public Schools. After retiring from teaching Walter returned to his life-long focus on keeping people safe and worked in various security organizations. His years as the security officer at the Amsurg national headquarters gave him much satisfaction.

Walter married Susan Hammonds in 1985. They spent almost forty years together as a couple. Walter was unfailing in his support of Susan’s active career and made it possible for her to take on many leadership roles in different organizations. His quiet consistency and loyalty were a rock that held fast through the many storms that life brought. He described himself as “at last lucky in love” – a sentiment shared by Susan.

Walter was a member of Woodmont Christian Church (DOC) and served the church as a deacon and as a devoted member of the Shepherds Ministry, focused on the safety of congregants.

Walter had a life-long fascination with WWII (European theater), with tanks and airplanes, and with the political events that led to Germany’s capitulation to Hitler. He could recognize an airplane by its sound; he could describe imperfections in officer’s uniforms or incorrect dates on websites related to these areas. A lifelong Democrat, he watched CNN daily and was deeply concerned with the current US political situation.

All of these facts about Walter somehow miss the essence of who he was – a quietly determined man who lived life on his own terms. When asked how he wanted to be remembered, he said “He did his best.” The poem “Desiderata” which he loved and often shared, was his code for living. He was a man of principle for whom loyalty and kindness were the core of his being. He was also funny but with a dry wit that one had to be clever to catch.

The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at NHC at the Trace for the loving care and compassion they gave Walter during this difficult time. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service on February 15, 2025 at Woodmont Christian Church, 3601 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville, TN with Visitation from 11-1 and service at 1. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Woodmont Christian Church, the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.