Willie Lee White

Willie Lee White was born to the union of John Henry White and Lodie Carter. Willie was the youngest of three boys and looked up to his older brother, Charley and Henry James. Willie attended various schools in Stockton, California. As a boy, he worked in the fields with his family to help generate income. Willie once commented to his mother that this type of work was not for him and when he grew up, he would strive for success through other outlets.

Willie met his wife, Claudia, in Stockton, California. To this union, two beautiful children were born: Kevin and Cynthia. As a military family, they moved every few years to a new duty station. Willie was involved in several youth programs including little league coaching and supporting his children's Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts activities.

As a young man, Willie eagerly joined the United States Marine Corps and excelled in his communications unit. As a new recruit, he enjoyed traveling the world and often shared stories with his family about his adventures in the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia. As a marine, Willie found success as a boxer and because of his youth was nicknamed "Kid". He fought proudly as a light heavyweight and heavyweight and was known as the "hardest puncher" on his squads. Willie fought worldwide and never saw defeat in the ring. His most celebrated title was winning the "Light Heavyweight Biloxi Golden Gloves" belt. He served one tour in the Marine Corps then enlisted in the United States Air Force.

During his tour in the Air Force, Willie worked with various elite units and was always taking more courses to advance in the military. He specialized in providing advanced maintenance on military aircraft and specifically enjoyed working on the F-111. Additionally, Willie, worked on analog and digital on-board computers, as well as radar, automatic flight control, navigation, weapons, and compass systems. Willie retired from the Air Force after 20 years of dedicated service.

Because of his extensive technical experience, Willie was pursed and accepted a Communication Technician position with Pacific Telephone. Willie's true passion was always education. He began attending California Stat Bakersfield and after several years of night school,he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration - Management. He continued to excel at Pacific Bell and held various management positions, including Operator Services Supervisor, Planning Engineer, and Marketing Administrator. After 15 years of service, Willie elected to retire from Pacific Bell.

After retirement, Willie enjoyed daily walks in his neighborhood, meeting up with friends, and relaxing in his home. He easily made friends wherever hewent and spent time with them at his favorite social establishments including The American Legion, "The WrightPlace", and various places for coffee.

Willie White has left a mark that will forever be cherished. Wegive thanksfor the life of a unique and caring husband, father, uncle, cousin, father-in-law, grandfather and friend.

Willie was preceded indeath byhis parents; his brother Henry James White; his wife Claudia; and his daughter Cynthia. He is survived by, his son Kevin; granddaughters Alycia, Christina and Monica; great-grandson Lennon; brother Charley Muldrew; and a host of beloved relatives and friends.