Clarence Disco/Gospel Pete Pete White Sr.

Mr. Clarence “Disco/Gospel Pete” White, Sr., was born in Norfolk, Virginia to the late James Pete White and Mertha Lee Holley White on August 28, 1942. He was called to be with his Lord on Tuesday, February 1, 2017. His predeceased family members are his daughter, Judy A. White; sister, Zadie L. Williams; brothers, Clifton, Harold, and Bobby (Chunky) White.

Clarence graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, Norfolk, VA. After graduating, Clarence started working with the City of Norfolk as an Equipment Operator in the Public Works Department for seven years and the Naval Supply Center, Norfolk Naval Base as a Forklift Operator where he retired with over 27 years of service.

“Disco/Gospel Pete”, as so lovingly known, worked diligently for his church, Faith Deliverance Church of God in Christ, as a Guitarist and Transportation Coordinator. He performed professionally with the Mighty Clouds of Joy, The Word Singers, The Chesterfield Five, and many other gospel groups playing his guitar as no other could.

As a DJ, his services were often sought because he always drew a crowd. His personality was infectious and was felt by everyone he touched. He was the head DJ at “Broadway” for over 15 years and the “only” DJ at the Eureka Lodge for over a decade. His nickname from performing at The Sons of Norfolk was “Picking Pete” because he could surely “pick” his guitar. The crowd came just to see him “pick” his guitar and lift their spirits. His last known place of performance was “Greenies” with an all-white band where he was called affectionately “grandpa”.

Left to cherish his memories are his wife for 53 years, Mary A. White; a daughter, Charlotte L. Ware (Stephen); son, Clarence P. White, Jr. all of Norfolk VA; brother, Carey White of Norfolk; sisters, Viole Brown (Va Beach), Sandria Hughes (Chesapeake), and Sheila White (Norfolk); sister-in-law, Shirley Wallace (Harold), brother-in-law, Charlie Richardson; grandchildren Christopher B. and Alston T. Ware and great grandson, Jaidyn Yates and a host of nieces, nephews, and special friends.