James Ralph White's Obituary
James R. White, born on January 28, 1938, in Houlka, MS, to Preston and Melissa White, passed away on December 17, 2024 leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service. Growing up on the family farm, James learned the value of relationships early on. After graduating from Houlka High School, he served in the US Army then moved to Memphis, TN, where he embarked on a political career that spanned decades.
From his first job parking cars for South Central Bell Employees in downtown Memphis to his eventual retirement from Bell 30 years later, James was always concerned with the well-being of others. This passion for fairness and dignity led him to the office of President for the Communication Workers of America, the union representing South Central Bell workers. In 1979, he was selected to represent the CWA as a lobbyist and liaison for President Jimmy Carter's re-election campaign. After the campaign, he returned to Memphis and was re-elected as President of the CWA. He remained a vital part of the union until his appointment in 1987 as Commissioner of Labor for Tennessee under Governor Ned McWherter, a position he held until 1995.
Following his retirement, James worked for the Orpheum Theatre for almost 24 years. He was a 32nd degree Mason and served on the board of the American Way. James was not only a Mason, but also a Shriner in which proved his passion for fairness, truth, and friendship. James was a friend to many and always the first to help. He loved his granddaughters fiercely, always attending their events and being present for them in whatever they needed.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Preston and Melissa Brown White, and his brother, Billy White. He is survived by his daughter, Gina White Smith (C. Michael Smith Jr., M.D.); his sister, Martha Elizabeth Wilson; and his two grandchildren, Julianna Elise Smith and Amelia Grace Smith.
The family invites friends to gather for visitation from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Thursday, December 26, at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 5668 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN. Funeral services will be held at Forest Hill Cemetery Mausoleum, 2240 Whitten Road, on Friday, December 27, 2024, at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Habitat for Humanity, the American Cancer Society, and Shriners Children’s Hospital.
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