James Perry White, Sr.

James Perry White, Sr. passed away in his home surrounded by loved ones in Felton, Delaware on Monday, April 26th, 2021. He was 84 years old. He was born in Lewes, Delaware on February 28th, 1937 to Clara Holleger and Harry Sickler White, Sr. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings Elaine Davis, Leonard Holleger, Shirley Davis, and Harry S. White, II. James is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Carmen MarÍa GarcÍa Calballo White, who he fell in love with at first sight in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. He is also survived by his six children, Sharon Sáez (Rigoberto Sáez-Ortiz), James White, Jr. (Debbie), Walter White, Clara Abraham (Woody Bargar), Harry White, III, and Linda Colina (Michael); his 20 grandchildren Rigoberto, Mariel, Felipe, James III, Rosa, Robert, Justin, Anna, Wesley, Wyatt, Marcus, Eric, Elisa, Laura, Summer, Harrison, Austin, Blake, Raymond, and Ashley; and his 13 great grandchildren Sara, Gabriel, Penelope, Mason, Amiya, Eric, Juan, Leo, Kaiden, Emma, Alex, Ellie, M.J., Jaxon, Davis, Caden, Alaina, and Cameron. He was also beloved by many nieces, nephews, and their children. 

James served in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years, enlisting at just 17 years old. He is a Vietnam War veteran, and following his service in the USMC, he went on to support veterans through his involvement in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and the Marine Corps League. He had two birthdays – February 28th and November 10th, the USMC birthday. Oorah!

James not only served his country and his fellow veterans, but he also served as a caregiver to his wife and his family. Upon retirement, he took care of his grandchildren full-time, which he enjoyed immensely. In his free time, he loved to golf, cook, garden, and spend time with his family. He was an excellent chef, and his favorite thing to do was prepare a homecooked meal for his family and friends. He loved to plan dinner before breakfast was over. He was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles. He enjoyed watching Western movies, listening to country music, and reading books, especially Louis L’amour and Tom Clancy, who he resembled. Most of all, he cherished his family, and he embodied the Marine Corps motto “Semper Fidelis” – always faithful – until his last day on earth. He will be deeply missed by his loved ones, who will aim to honor his legacy by upholding that same motto throughout their lives. Semper Fi. 

Viewing Saturday, May 1, 2021 from 4 pm until the time of service 6 pm at Pippin Funeral Home, Wyoming, DE.  The viewing is a walkthrough; the family is limited to 50 guests at a time, social distancing and masks are required.  Memorials may be made to the Holy Cross Catholic Church, Dover, DE.  Private interment with military honors scheduled at a later date.

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