ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Shelton Samuel White Sr., born to Amos and Elsie White, March 29, 1925, fulfilled his final wish to join his beloved wife, Rachael, daughter, Janice, and son, Laurence, Friday, June 1. Prior to that goal, he wanted to outlive his siblings. That competitive nature and spirit coursed through his body the day he was born. This character was well-known among family and friends!
After serving in the Army during WWII and graduating from UMO with an engineering degree, Dad’s path followed multiple careers, all successful due to his dedication and desire to climb any ladder or obstacle presented to him. Those achievements were shared with family and friends throughout his careers.
Dad’s last venture was owner of H.E. Callahan Construction Co., Auburn, retiring in 1985.
Dad is survived by his daughter, Callie; sons Sam, wife, Francoise, Alan, wife, Marcia, and Bruce; one brother, Owen; several grandchildren; great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; multiple nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Ivah White; and daughter-in-law, Carol White-St. Pierre. Special thanks to our brother, Bruce, who cared endlessly for Dad, and Chuck and Shirley Leadbetter, who entertained Dad frequently.
To describe or share stories of our Dad are endless. His attributes were well-known: competitive (he was often questioned about golf, cribbage and card counts), tenacious, fair, well-respected by family and friends, generous, always curious, a consummate “Jack” and the Beanstalk. Dad was short in stature, but larger than life! “I can’t” was never part of his vocabulary; he found whatever channel was necessary.
Shelton S. White Sr.
Send questions/comments to the editors.