Lillie White

Lillie Mae White was born on March 28, 1945, to Gail DeLoach and Elsie Mae Snowden in Arkadelphia, AR. She was the cherished eldest of five siblings, raised in a Christian home filled with abundant love. 

At the age of 12, Lillie found her spiritual anchor, confessing a hope in Christ during a prayer meeting led by Deacon Fred Brown. Her commitment to the Lord spanned an extraordinary 69 years, during which she served as a loyal, faithful, and dedicated member of the Greater Tate Temple Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Superintendent LeRoy Williams. Her service within the church was extensive, encompassing roles such as Choir Member, Church Mother, Deaconess, a member of the Mothers Board, President of the Purity Department, Junior Usher, Church Historian, Assistant Sunday School Secretary, YPWW Secretary, YWCC Member and Vice President, Sewing Circle Member, and a part of the Church Anniversary Committee. 

A dedicated scholar, Mother White’s pursuit of knowledge began at Peake High School, where she demonstrated academic excellence. This drive for achievement led her to earn her cosmetology license in 1966. Embracing lifelong learning, she furthered her education, obtaining an associate degree from Henderson State University in 1984 and a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Mother White continued to expand her learning by taking courses at Ouachita Technical College in Malvern, AR where she earned several professional certificates. Professionally, Mother White contributed to her community through her work at The Beehive in Arkadelphia and dedicated 17 years of service to the Arkadelphia public school system, positively impacting the lives of countless students. 

On May 29, 1965, Mother White entered into a loving union with James Ivory White Jr., the love of her life. Together, they became devoted parents to two beautiful children, Greta Scott and Terrance White, a testament to their enduring partnership and family legacy. Beyond her professional and personal life, Mother White was known for her radiant spirit, compassionate heart, and exquisite sense of style. Her passion for shopping, particularly for elegant church attire, reflected her dignified presence. She carried herself with an undeniable charm, a true embodiment of her joyful and vivacious personality. 

Mother White made her heavenly transition on Friday, June 12, 2026. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband James Ivory White Jr, and her siblings Lawrence DeLoach and Lynn Dell DeLoach. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories to her daughter, Greta Scott (Ronald), and son, Terrance White, of Arkadelphia, Arkansas. She is also survived by her brothers, Benjamin DeLoach of Memphis, Tennessee, and Gary DeLoach (Rhonda) of Jacksonville, Arkansas; Four sister-in-laws, Elizabeth DeLoach of Hope, Arkansas, Michelle DeLoach of Knoxville, Tennessee; Betty Phifer, Earnestine Johnson (Robert) of Arkadelphia, Arkansas; Two brother-in-laws, Herman White and Derrick White (Verkita) of Arkadelphia, Arkansas; Three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, fourteen nieces and nephews, and a host of special cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends, including Gracie Neal, Rosie Anderson, Pat Coleman, Jewel Dennis, and Pat McGhee.

Visitation will be at Mitchell Funetal Home in Arkadelphia on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 12 noon to 7 P.M. with family gathering from 5 P.M. to 7 P.M. at the funeral home. The Celebration of Life will be, Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., at Greater Tate Temple Church of God in Christ in Arkadelphia where Superintendent LeRoy Williams is pastor and will serve as eulogist. Superintendent Robert Davis will serve as officiant. Burial and final resting place will be in Piney Grove Cemetery in Arkadelphia.