With sadness, love, and profound gratitude, the family of James Dempsey White Jr. announces his passing on February 7, 2022 at the age of 88. Born on November 16, 1933 in Carlisle County, KY, he was the son of the late James Dempsey White and Lou Anna Burkhart White.
Dempsey, better known as "Popka" to his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, was a fun-loving, light-hearted jokester who lived to make people laugh and smile. Dempsey was an avid golfer who loved the Kentucky Wildcats, animals, cooking, and feeding the neighbor's chickens almost as much as he loved to dance. He will be remembered for nicknames that no one would ever want to admit to and a sense of humor that would either make you blush or make you laugh.
Dempsey was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church where he always had a pocketful of Hershey Kisses to hand out, even if they were halfway melted or a little mushy. He was a veteran of the US Marine Corps, one of his proudest accomplishments. Dempsey was a God-fearing Marine who deeply loved his family. He was a man as special and unique as his name.
Dempsey met his "first wife," Nancy Colson White, while on leave from his military assignments. After just a few dates, he was deployed to Japan where he remained stationed for two years. During this time, Nancy and Dempsey wrote each other and fell in love. When he finally returned home, they soon married and started a family in Kentucky. A career with Delta airlines later took them to Florida where they owned and operated golf and tennis shops before finally settling in North Carolina.
In addition to his wife of 65 years, Nancy Colson White, he is also survived by his daughter, Becky White Strauss; grandchildren, Buddy White, Daniel Strauss (Christa), and Karen Storie (Cody); four great-grandchildren; sister, Beckie Schroeder; nephew, Kevin Schroeder (Becky); and niece, Karen Schroeder.
Dempsey was preceded in death by his son, Jim White.
The family has planned a private service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saving Grace K-9 and Amorem Hospice in his honor.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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