Rodney Murrel White

Rodney Murrel White, 85, of Roanoke, departed this life on Thursday, November 6, 2008. He was the son of the late George Rushton White and Erna Ruth Wheeler and the brother of the late David Andrew White. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Nancy Lee Farmer; a son, R. Wilson White, of Yadkinville, N.C.; a daughter, Helen R. White, of Boyds, Md.; sisters, Eunice W. Wheeler, of Roanoke, Va., and Peggy W. Zinos, of Madison, Wis.; grandchildren, Jacqueline W. Bolin and husband, Chris; Rodney Lee White and wife, Lynette, Anne Marie White and George Wilson White, all of Yadkinville, N.C. He was born on August 25, 1923, in what is now known as the Jordantown section of the western part of Bedford County. After graduating from Stewartsville High School in May 1941, he attended National Business College until October 1942, when he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served until May 1946. While he was visiting family and friends upon his return, N&W had a vacancy for a clerk-steno and contacted him. Thinking the position would be temporary, he accepted. It was temporary for the period from June 10, 1946, until November 1, 1987. From July 1, 1969, until his retirement, he was privileged to serve as a member of the staff of four of the N&W/NSC chairmen. In lieu of flowers, it is requested you send a contribution to your favorite charity or to your local chapter of the American Red Cross. A memorial service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church 1 p.m. Monday, November 10, 2008. His remains will be returned to the earth at a later date. Arrangements by Oakey's South Chapel.