Dec 06, 2024

Joseph L. White Sr.

Posted Dec 06, 2024 12:45 AM

Joseph L. White, 71, of Grandview Plaza, Kansas passed away on November 23, 2024, in his home surrounded by his loving family. 

Joe was born on July 1, 1953, to George and Viola Ruth (Mann) White in Junction City, Kansas. He grew up in Wakefield, Kansas with his siblings Jim, Jeannette, Viola, Betty, and Joyce. 

Joe loved the outdoors and, in his youth, sold bait and homemade sinkers out of his dad’s garage, and always did his best to beat local prices. His favorite moments were spent outdoors with his children and family, and passed those moments on to his grandchildren. 

Joe married Nancy (Parson) on December 2, 1974, in Decatur, Arkansas. They returned to Wakefield, Kansas, and raised their family. 

He worked for Union Pacific for most of his life, joining at the age of 17. He loved the different crews that he worked with, often sharing stories when he got home. He retired in 2013, after working 43 years on the railroad. 

Joe always lived life with the belief that family came first, and he worked hard to support them. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; three children, Rachel (Wayne) Kirchner of Wakefield, Kansas, Joseph White, Jr., of Missouri, and Nichole Mader (Bruce) of Junction City, Kansas; three siblings, Jim (Marie) White, Viola Kasarda of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Betty White; thirteen grandchildren, Kataya, Kevin, Kaylee, Kathryn, Julius, Jason, Destiny (Daniel), Hillary, Courtney (partner, Carlos), Hayden, and Hannah; four great-grandchildren, Conner, Caylen, Kylie, and Carlos IV. Joe also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

He is preceded by his parents; two sisters, Jeannette and Joyce; one grandson, Tristin.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral Home