Jay White

A joyful reunion occurred on Monday, July 25, 2011, when Jay Elbert White left his mortal body and returned to his heavenly home where loved ones were waiting. Jay was born November 2, 1932, in Plano, Idaho, the youngest child of Nofear Dennis White and Elsie Croney White. He joined his sister, Selma, and brothers, Reed and Gene. His childhood was spent on the family ranch where he rode his beloved horse, Diamond, and cared for his favorite dog, Shep. He attended Plano Elementary and graduated from South Fremont in St. Anthony, Idaho. It was at high school that he met LaWana Joy Davis who became his wife on October 13, 1948. Their marriage was solemnized in the Idaho Falls Temple on February 21, 1964. Jay and LaWana began their married life in St. Anthony, Idaho. They then moved to Idaho Falls where Jay spent 35 years in property management at INL. During this time, he attended night school, obtaining a Bachelor's degree in business management from the University of Idaho. Jay had a gift of music and could play any string instrument and the keyboard. He used his musical talent as guitarist and vocalist in his country band, The Rhythm Kings, for many years. Jay served in the Navy from which he was honorably discharged. Jay enjoyed spending time RVing with his wife and children to every campground, museum, National Park, and ghost town from Arizona to Canada. After retiring, winters were spent at Overton, Nevada. Jay was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully in many callings, and his favorite calling was serving in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. Jay’s wife, LaWana, passed away May 23, 2008, just short of their 60th anniversary. On September 19, 2008, he married Jean Baird in Idaho Falls. They spent three wonderful years together. Jay is survived by his wife, Jean; his sons, Drake (Joanie) White of Pahrump, Nevada, Brett (Jeriann) White of Blackfoot, Idaho; daughter, Terri Bergeson of Rexburg, Idaho; step-daughter, Terri Lee (Jeff) Luke of Roosevelt, Utah; and step-son, Jim (Debbie) Baird of Shelley, Idaho; 11 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. Jay was preceded in death by his wife, LaWana; son, Randy; daughter, Sherri; grandson, Jay; granddaughter, Kristy; great-grandson, Russell; his parents, brothers, and sister. Jay’s family would like to thank the care-givers, friends, and neighbors who so graciously gave of their time and friendship. The family will visit with friends on Thursday, July 28, 2011, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Rd. Private family graveside services will be held at the Firth Cemetery with Robert Nield of the Iona LDS 8th Ward officiating.