A Life Story

The Rev. James (Jimmy) White died December 31, 2024 at the age of 92. He was born July 2, 1932 in Columbus, Georgia to the Revs. Joseph and Louise White. Jimmy is a graduate of Jordan High School in Columbus and Southeastern Bible College in Lakeland, Florida where he met Anne Ward White. When he graduated, they married and set out as traveling evangelists. They would sing together while Anne played the piano or accordion and Jimmy played the guitar and preached. They served churches in Florida, Alabama, Arizona, and California before settling down in Valdosta where Jimmy became the pastor of Forrest Street Assembly of God Church, which would later move to Bemiss Road and become Evangel Assembly of God Church. While pastoring Evangel, Anne and Jimmy raised their two sons, Stan and Michael. For many years Jimmy served as a source of pastoral care and guidance for church members and the larger community of Valdosta. Jimmy also supported many clergy as a mentor for their spiritual lives and ministries. During a sabbatical time, Jimmy and Anne founded a church in Jamaica that is still a vibrant ministry center today. After retiring from full time ministry, Jimmy and Anne joined the rest of the family as members of Christ the King Episcopal Church in Valdosta where he served as a pastoral care assistant. Through his years of relationships and ministry, Jimmy has touched the lives of countless people who are forever shaped by his joyful, loving care.In the last years of his life, Jimmy relocated to Savannah, Georgia to be near his son, Michael and family. During this time, he experienced a true renaissance and lived an active, vibrant life. In his final weeks, he attended church services and concerts, and he enjoyed visits with family and friends. Special thanks to the communities of Savannah Square and historic Christ Episcopal Church for embracing and supporting Jimmy, allowing him to share his gifts, as well.Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Louise White; his wife, Anne White; and his son, Stan White. He is survived by his sister, Betty Franklin; brother-in-law, Matthew Ward (Larry Barton); son, Michael White (Helen); grandchildren, Sarah Nelson (Jake), Skyler Maher (Robby), Ethan White, Nicholas White, Jay White, and Isabella White; great grandchildren, Jakeson, Luke, and Anna Claire Nelson, and Penn and Sage Maher.A public, graveside memorial service will be announced at a later date. It will be held at New Hope Assembly of God Church in Graceville, Florida where Jimmy's remains will be buried beside his beloved spouse, Anne.