Mary White

Mary Lee White, born November 7, 1933, in Kansas City, Missouri, to James and Mossie Francis, peacefully departed this life on November 1, 2024, surrounded by love and cherished memories. Mary was a beacon of kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit throughout her 90 years.

A devoted and faithful member of Cain Grant AME Church, Mary lived her life with purpose and joy. In 1967, she married the love of her life, Henry L. White, and they built a home filled with love, laughter, and resilience.

Mary dedicated a decade of her life caring for infants at Children’s Mercy before transitioning to private duty care, where she nurtured countless families for over 40 years. Her professional life was defined by compassion and an unmatched dedication to those in her care.

Mary was known for her love of family and community, delighting in gatherings where her high-spirited nature shone. Her home was a haven of warmth, especially during the holidays when her famous peach cobbler and homemade dinner rolls was the highlight of the table. She never learned to drive but owned an incredible knowledge of Kansas City’s routes, sharing detailed directions and stories with loved ones.

Mary’s passions were as vibrant as her personality. She relished cooking, exploring new restaurants, weekend shopping adventures, and listening to the soulful music of artists like Gerald Levert. Her zest for life and unyielding faith were inspirations to all who knew her.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, James and Mossie Francis; her beloved husband, Henry L. White; siblings Kenneth Francis, Betty Black, Charles Edward Francis, Earl Francis, Beverly Ellis, John Edward Francis, Emma Maxine Whitmire, Eleanor Blount, Carl Francis, and James Francis; children, Michael White, Tyrone White, and Henry White Jr.; grandchildren, Cortez Bandy ,Gregory Fields, Keith White Jr., Infant White; and great-grandchildren Theary Bennett, Larry Brown, and Charles White Jr.

She leaves behind a legacy carried on by her loving children: Charles White (Diane), Therance White, Teresa Bandy, Keith White, Diana White, Betty White, as well as a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will forever cherish her memory.

Mary Lee White’s life was a testament to love, faith, and resilience. Her laughter, stories, and unwavering presence will be profoundly missed, yet her spirit will live on in the hearts of all she touched.

Rest in peace, Mary. Your journey was extraordinary, and your legacy timeless.