Selma Bernice White

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Selma Bernice White, who left us on December 15, 2024, at the age of 70. Selma was a devoted educator, passionate mentor, and cherished member of the Capitol Hill Cluster community for over three decades.

Born on March 12, 1954, in Washington, D.C., Selma dedicated her life to inspiring students and fostering a love for learning in both children and adults. She enjoyed educating individuals across her lifespan and touched the lives of countless hearts and minds. During the latter part of her career in education, Selma served as a professor of early childhood education at the University of the District of Columbia. She has shaped the future of many generations. As a teacher, Selma was known for her unwavering commitment to excellence, nurturing spirit, and ability to bring out the best in each student.

Beyond the classroom, Selma was an advocate for social justice and food equity. She worked as an expert educator at FRESHFARM FoodPrints. She enjoyed sharing her love for gardening, cooking, and nutrition with young children and inspired colleagues. Her contributions extended far beyond teaching, as she played a pivotal role in community activism and social equity.

Selma’s legacy will live on in the hearts of the many students that she mentored and the colleagues that she worked alongside. She believed deeply in the power of education and its ability to transform lives, and that belief resonated with all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Selma is survived by her daughter Leah Rose, her son-in-law, Cameron Rose, and her grandson, Langston Rose as well as her brother, Robert White, sister, Bonita Gross, brother-in-law, James Gross, and nephews, Jay and Terence Gross. She was predeceased by her father, Robert White and mother, Alma White.

A celebration of Selma’s life will be held at Fort Lincoln Funeral Home & Cemetery on January 12, 2025, at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The House of Ruth in honor of Selma’s commitment to education and social justice.

Selma will be dearly missed but never forgotten. She leaves behind a lasting impact that will continue to inspire for years to come.