Harold Ray White

Harold Ray White was born August 30, 1939,  in Uvalde, TX, and passed away at St Francis Hospice in Monroe, LA on May 21, 2023, after an extended illness.

Mr. White was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Eugene White and Lora Nell Brown Cockerham; as well as his son, Kelly Ray White.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Brenda Salter White; son, Michael White of Lake Charles, LA; his daughter, Marian Archibald (Joe) of Statesville, NC; and son, John Huntsman Crowley (Patrick) of Monroe, LA. Grandsons, Matt Archibald and Jack Archibald of North Carolina; his granddaughter, Demi Theriot of Grand Lake, LA; and two great granddaughters in Grand Lake, LA.

He is also survived by a special nephew, whom he considered a son, Troy W. Rogers of Reeves, LA; sisters, Lessie Swire of Hackberry, LA, and Meba Rogers of Reeves, LA; brothers, Gene White (Paula) of Texas and Eddie White of Sterlington, LA.

Harold’s childhood was spent in Westlake, LA, graduating from Westlake High School in 1957, later attending semesters at McNeese State University and Northeast Louisiana State University.

Harold was Viet Nam era veteran, having served in the Navy 1961–1964. He served most of his duty on a destroyer in the Mediterranean where the sailors built schools in Turkey and Italy. The US Navy gave him the trade of electrician which he nourished for a lifetime. He was a Navy Veteran to the core. He supported his Navy and Military men and women with all his heart.  He frequented the VA in both Monroe and Shreveport, LA for medical guidance. His family thanks them.

In the early 1980’s he and a friend established Industrial Control Systems which designed, built and installed electrical panels for paper and plywood mills across the south. Upon retirement he pursued many hobbies. First of all was Red Fishing, having a camp in Hackberry, LA. He spent much time camping and fishing with family, friends and his nephew Troy. Second, he was a woodworker with a fully equipped workshop. He created rosary boxes, easel boards, a 12 foot long cypress dining table for his brother in law, as well as many other significant pieces.

Harold had the honor of acting as a mentor to boys in two families who were neighbors. Josh, Brayden and Garrett spent many hours with Mr. Harold learning how to make various wood projects. He was a kind and special teacher.  The family would also like to recognize and thank Richard Perot who has been a wonderful neighbor and friend.

Harold is best described as a hardworking dedicate man who was fair and kind. Anytime he was asked to do something he did it perfectly and willingly and is remembered for his patience and love of people.

His family is thankful for his long life and his love for them. We’d especially like to recognize doctors Jeff Hilbun and PA Anthony Perkins, Cardiologists, Primary Care Provider Owen Myers, and the staff at St Francis Hospital and Hospice, too numerous to name, but led his family by the hand and saw to his every need. The White family thanks you.

His family also acknowledges his love of small animals – Mitzi, Puppy, Blackie, Goldies and Lil Bit – to name a few.

Following his wishes, his earthly body was cremated. Thank you Mulhearn Funeral Home. No services are planned but in the near future his family will take him to his favorite red fishing spot at Big Lake in South Louisiana, which will be his final earthly resting place.

His family would also like to acknowledge the Community of Christ church family, Irma McCall and Pastor Don Hawkins, who gave spiritual comfort.

Any memorials may be given to the NELA Veterans Home in Monroe, LA or Community of Christ Church (c/o Pastor Don Hawkins, 86 Lakeshore Park Dr, Monroe, LA, 71203), or to the organization that you wish.

Rest in Peace Harold Ray White