William James White

May 9, 1936 - May 16, 2017

Charleston, IL – William James White, age 81, of Charleston, IL, passed away at 12:40 a.m., Tuesday, May 16, 2017, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center. A celebration of life will be held May 28, 2017, at 12:00 p.m., at Possum Hollow in Fox Ridge State Park. Lunch will be provided. Casual attire is requested. Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, located at 1200 Wabash Avenue, Mattoon, IL 61938, is assisting the family with arrangements. Born May 9, 1936, in Minot, ND, William was the son of Kenneth S. and Vera (Hyatt) White. He married Marcia (Holloway) on April 20, 1957, in Mattoon, IL. She survives. Other survivors include their children, W. Brian White and wife Willene of Ottumwa, IA, Andrew James White and wife Tammy of Charleston, IL, Lisa White with Brian Marvin of Charleston, IL, Douglas White of Charleston, IL, and Katie Nelson and husband Ted of El Paso, IL; fourteen grandchildren: Lucas, Maggie, Taylor, Andrew, Kristen, Amanda, Lexie, Laine, Haley Hillary, JayeAnne, Abby, Zac, and Joci; twelve great grandchildren: Bella, Joel, Jauquin, Merce, Gretta Jo, Ozzie, Amelia, Violet, Kale, Kai, Berkeley, and Owen; and one great-great grandchild, Jo Jo. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jared and Kenneth White; and one sister, Jane Ann Frank. Mr. White had previously been employed by Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center as a lab courier, the Mattoon Police Department as an officer, Young’s Radiator, and was previously owner of a janitorial service. In his free time, he enjoyed photography, baking, and visiting the Mattoon YMCA where he especially enjoyed the pool. Spending time with his family, however, was his favorite way to spend time. Please visit www.mitchell-jerdan.com or www.facebook.com/mitchelljerdanfuneralhome to light a virtual candle in his honor or share a memory with his family.