Mack C. White was born on September 7, 1934 in Lombardy, Mississippi, to the late Willie B. White and Willie White. He was the older brother to his sister Rose, and late brother A.C.. Mack grew up in the small town of Kennett, Missouri, where he developed his strong work ethic in the agriculture region. He would often travel to Marion, Indiana to visit his cousins and favorite aunt, Jennie Harper.
Mack graduated with high marks from Hayti High School, a senior class of 32 students. Mack earned his Associate in Applied Science degree in Public Information from the Community College of the Air Force and completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis on Communication and Management from the University of Northern Colorado.
Mack enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1956 in Bragg City, Missouri. He proudly served his country for 27 years and retired in 1983 at the top Non-Commissioned rank of Chief Master Sergeant. From that time forward he was ALWAYS known as ‘The Chief’. CMSgt White diligently served 16 years in Security Police, and 11 years in Public Affairs. During those years he earned numerous military awards, decorations, medals, ribbons, high recognition, and honors to include the Meritorious Service Medal for outstanding performance to the United States Air Force and his country. CMSgt White was also a highly qualified expert marksman. CMSgt White’s professional memberships include the SAC Elite Guard Association, and the Air Force Sergeants Association. Some of CMSgt White’s duty stations include Offutt AFB, NE, Vandenburg AFB, CA, Castle AFB, CA, Wright Patterson AFB, OH, Altus AFB, OK, Goose Bay, Labrador, Lowry AFB, CO, Bitburg AB, Germany, and the Air Force Academy, CO.
CMSgt received his California Teacher Credential in Designated Subjects in 1986.
From that time, he served as an Air Force Junior ROTC instructor until his retirement in 1988. During his tenure he led his JROTC Drill Team to numerous local, regional, and national competitions. Chief White’s highly notable JROTC Drill Team and Color Guard also participated in parades, ceremonies, formal military balls, and volunteered at air shows. He was a dedicated educator at Jurupa Valley HS, Canyon Springs HS, and Oak Grove HS. The Chief was a true inspiration to his students.
Throughout CMSgt White’s life he enjoyed several sports and activities such as baseball, softball, bowling, fishing, football, billiards, playing cards, and many more. He was specifically an avid baseball player, softball player, and bowler, always taking home the trophies. Chief White also coached baseball, softball, and bowling. His participation as a coach included the teams of his own children, military teams, and high school teams.
Mack - The Chief, was a loving husband, brother, father, grandfather, and true friend to all. His firm belief in God and his devotion to his family was the center of his life. Mack spent 40 years as a resident of California. He enjoyed traveling, a good adventure, listening to The Temptations, gospel quartets, and the speeches from the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The Chief was his own philosopher full of wisdom, integrity, discipline, encouragement of hope, and an inspiration to us all. Always sharing his sense of humor…. It is impossible to summarize 91 years of an incredible life of such a remarkable man. Just know he had a GREAT life, well respected, and was an AMAZING, WONDERFUL, CARING man who was truly loved. His legacy lives on through lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.
Mack passed away peacefully at his home in Idaho surrounded by his wife and family.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
2 Timothy 4:7 NIV
Mack C. White is survived by his wife Anna White and family, sister Rose Hubbard and family, son Curt White, daughter Teresa Sherald (1SG (Ret.) Bruce Sherald), and daughter Trina Brown (SMSgt (Ret.) Curtis Brown).
Six grandchildren also survive him: DeShaun Donaldson (Mychal), LaVonne Pulliam (Chris), Erica James (Antoine), Christopher Brown, Lauren Mason (Matthew), and Joshua White. Five great grandchildren, Gabby, Maddy, Hannah, Sarah, and Malakai.
Former wife and mother of his children Birdie Faulkner.
Extended family Paul, Everett, and Lisa Bennett, a host of friends, and former students.
Predeceased by his parents Willie White and Willie B. White, brother A.C. White, and former wife Marilyn White.
Mack C. White will be laid to rest at Miramar National Cemetery, San Diego, CA