James Ferebee White

James “Jim” Ferebee White, 80, of Riva, MD passed away the morning of Nov 10, 2025. Born in Greenville, SC to late Robert F. White Sr. and Emily Christine Ferebee White. Jim was the youngest of five brothers and sisters, raised in Chesapeake, VA, and graduated from Oscar Smith High School. Jim was drafted into the Army where he proudly served as a Radio Operator with the 1st Infantry Division in Vietnam from 1966 - ‘67.

After returning home he married Peggy Louise Rippard, and they eventually settled in Riva, MD. A career as draftsman with Maryland National Capital Park & Planning Commission was followed by many years serving others through efforts at Riva Trace Baptist Church, leading sing-a-longs at Ginger Cove, and lending a strong hand whenever it was asked or needed. Jim will be remembered for his quick wit, love of family, ability to recite a “po-em” from childhood, and the joy he found pickin’ up free things, especially wood or timber: “It’ll burn”.

He is survived by his loving wife Peggy Louise White; three daughters Leah Schultz (Joe), Hannah Akers (Johnathan), and Carrah White; his four beloved grandchildren Poppy Anya Akers, Ivy Josephine Schultz, Daisy James Akers, and Juniper Ferebee Schultz; his siblings Houston White (Cheryl), Ann Meyers, Pat Piland (Wally), and many loving nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday November 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM -12:30 PM at John M. Taylor Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM in the Chapel with Pastor Dennis Gray officiating. Committal Service will be held immediately after the funeral service at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville, MD, where military honors will be rendered by members of the Army National Guard. Pallbearers will be Johnathan Akers, Joe Schultz, Dave Darbro, Scott Edwards, Mike Heath and Tim Mulvihill.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff and caregivers at Anne Arundel Medical Center for all the care and kindness shown. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions could be sent to Riva Trace Baptist Church or the Salvation Army.