John Thomas White

John Thomas White
January 2, 1938 - April 21, 2017

John Thomas White passed away on Thursday, April 21, 2017, in his home surrounded by his family. John was born January 2, 1938 in Fisher County, Texas the son of Thomas Earl White and Sallie Mabel (Carter) White.

John was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He was born in Fisher County Texas and graduated from Old Glory High School but he called New Mexico his home for almost 60 years. There was no doubt he loved Texas though - he was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan and left behind many relatives and friends in Texas.

As much as he loved Texas, John chose to make New Mexico his home. He met the love of his life Marilyn on a blind date in New Mexico and fell in love with her, her family and the life they built together. He was married to Marilyn for more than 58 years, this relationship was a demonstration of the love and character he had for all of those he called friend or family. In fact, his relationships epitomized the person he was and the legacy that he is leaving behind. He demonstrated his love through his passion, loyalty, commitment and integrity.

John retired from El Paso Natural Gas after 40 years. He worked hard, was disciplined and was motivated to take care of his family. At 19, he started as a Gas Dispatcher with a HS education and eventually retired as Gas Manager in 1996.

One of John's gifts was being actively involved in what was important to his kids. He coached his daughters' softball teams and his son's baseball team, and became a certified timer for state swim meets so he could cheer on his two daughters from to the sidelines.

Once he had grandkids his involvement continued. While his first two grandkids lived in Texas, he drove across the state to visit multiple times a year. He was there for theater performances, soccer games, and all events that were important to them. His steady and supportive presence never wavered.

He loved living in the same city with his son's family, and was actively involved in their day-to-day activities.

Not only was his family important, he was involved in other activities that stimulated his mind and eased his spirit. Some of his favorite things were going the farm to garden, playing chess, golfing, playing 42 with his sisters, and delivering Meals on Wheels.

He is survived by his wife Marilyn, son Brian White and his wife Tina, his daughter Kelly White and her husband Frank Copertino, his daughter Jennifer Sherman and her husband Tom. He is also survived by 4 precious grandchildren Meghan Sherman, Thomas Sherman, Asa White, Zane White, as well as his two sisters Linda Honer and Sue McGee.

Graveside services and burial will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday, April 26, at Memory Gardens Cemetery, 6917 East Main St. in Farmington, and will be officiated by his son-in-law Tom Sherman.

Pallbearers are Brian White, Tom Sherman, Thomas Sherman, John Honer, Ben McGee, Don Miszkiel, Todd Martin, and Frank Copertino. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in John's memory to the National Parkinson's Foundation, http://www.parkinson.org/tribute.

John's services are entrusted to Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home,103 East Ute St., Farmington, (505) 325-8688.