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Malissa White Obituary
When Malissa White was growing up in Bald Knob, Ark., strangers assumed she was the eldest child in the family, even though she was not. If anyone asked her older sister a question, she would answer. "She was like the caretaker of the whole family, the spokesperson, the whole lot," said her brother Marc.
When Ms. White married Rocky Higgins in 1996 and they set up house together in East Flatbush, she became a mother to his two sons. Marlon, the older of the two, played basketball at his high school in Queens. Ms. White kept in contact with his coaches and college scouts, making it possible for him to win a basketball scholarship to Talladega College in Alabama. She found summer jobs for Mr. Higgins's nieces.
"She was a real family person," Mr. Higgins said of his wife, who was 36 and worked in the human resources department of Marsh & McLennan. Ms. White was a mentor in her church. When members of the congregation were burned out of their homes, she took them in. "All I can say is that she is the best thing that happened to me," Mr. Higgins said.
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Opal Fry Dorris
September 11, 2024
My heart is with your family today
Sylvia Cleveland
September 12, 2023
Never forgotten, dear friend.
Opal Dorris
September 11, 2023
Thinking of your family today❤
Opal Fry Dorris
Rebecca Perez
September 17, 2021
I worked with Malissa at Young & Rubicam. She always had a smile and was such a warm person. I still have my ID with her signature on it. I pray for her every year and will always remember her warm age lic soul.
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Opal Fry Dorris
September 11, 2021
Just read your family’s reflections in the Daily Citizen. Thank You.
My heart, tears and prayers are for your family and our country today.
Never Forget....Love Opal Fry Dorris
Kenia Nunez
September 11, 2020
Every year on 9/11 I think of Malissa White, my HR manager at Young & Rubicam who promoted me to be the assistant to CEO of our company at just 24 years old. Y&R was one of the top advertising agencies in the world.
I'll never forget her face seeing my gratitude when she gave me a raise from $25k to $40k. She said "why are you shocked Kenia- you underestimate yourself - don't do that." That has always stayed in my heart. And every time I think I’m not equipped for a job or opportunity, I remember Malissa- and go for it!
Kenia Nunez
September 11, 2020
Every year on 9/11 I think of Malissa White, my HR manager at Young & Rubicam who promoted me to be the assistant to CEO of our company at just 24 years old. Y&R was one of the top advertising agencies in the world.
I'll never forget her face seeing my gratitude when she gave me a raise from $25k to $40k. She said "why are you shocked Kenia- you underestimate yourself - don't do that." That has always stayed in my heart. And every time I think I’m not equipped for a job or opportunity, I remember Malissa- and go for it!
The Kindred Family
October 1, 2019
Sending our deep sympathy to your family. May God continue to give the needed strength. Maliissa is still sadly missed and will always be remembered.
Sylvia Cleveland
September 12, 2019
Miss you my friend
Lorenzo Frederick
September 11, 2019
Malissa, in the little time that I got to know you, I came to realize that you were this genuine soul that cared for everything and everyone in your life and for that you will forever be loved and never forgotten.
Dean Frederick
September 11, 2019
Malissa, as the Country remembers the Victims of 911, I just wanted to pause and say how much My Family misses your precious smile. We will always cherish our times spent with you. Rest In Peace Dear Malissa!❤❤❤
E. Dean Frederick
September 11, 2017
Malissa,
Another year has passed here without you, and with each passing year, we miss you even more! Great news, Lorenzo and Thuy moved to Birmingham, and they're very happy! Martha and I are nearing retirement, wish you could join us in MS every year!
Love And Miss You,
Dean
E. Dean Frederick
September 28, 2016
We'll always miss your wonderful personality, and class! Love You!!!
September 27, 2016
Malissa, I never forget that amazing smile. You are always in my thoughts. You pop into my mind ever so often. Like today, I wish this horrible day never happened. I keep my Y&R ID card in my dresser with your signature on it~
Rebecca Perez
September 11, 2015
To Malissa's family, you are always in our prayers. Love, Bud and Opal fry Dorris
Katherine Cothern
September 11, 2015
On this 14th anniversary we still remember and mourn!
E. Dean Frederick
September 10, 2015
Malissa, we've come to another year, and there not many days that go by that the family does not think of you! We miss you so much, yet, we all know that you are looking down on us with that gorgeous smile! Love you Malissa!!
E. Dean Frederick
September 12, 2014
We miss that smile everyday!
Rose A Whitelow
September 12, 2013
Remembering the legacy of Malissa White.
September 11, 2013
Remembering Malissa and her family today.
Opal and Bud Dorris
G. Freeman
September 11, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
E. Dean Frederick
September 10, 2013
Malissa,
Your smile continues to brighten our home. Not many days go by that we don't talk about you and the glow you brought to our home. We miss you dearly and we continue to pray for your family.
We Love You,
Martha and Dean
Rose A Whitelow
September 12, 2012
Praying for the family of Malissa.
Teresa J Jackson-Dugger
September 11, 2012
I miss you very much and will always cherish our high school basketball days at BK. We are all so proud of you and the memory you left behind, Love TJ Jackson
September 11, 2012
Thinking of Malissa and Her family.
Opal Fry Dorris
Bud Dorris
LaDonna Thompson
September 10, 2012
Thinking of you and your family. You are always in our hearts. One of these days we will be reunited with you and other loved ones.That day will be a glad reunion day, my friend.
Plillip White
September 17, 2011
On behalf of the White family, I would like to thank each and every one of you for your kind words. Malissa will never be forgotten.we miss her so much. The Godly advice is what I miss the most. She was the best "BIG" sister a brother could have. We love you Sis. Again we thank you for taking time to remember Malissa!!!
Cara Huntsman Myrick
September 12, 2011
Remembering you and thinking of you. It was a honor to know you.
Opal Dorris
September 12, 2011
Malissa,
You are missed everyday. We Love You and your family.
Opal(Fry)Dorris
September 12, 2011
You are still my best friend. I think of you so often. I am a grandmother of three, time is flying by, I may be seeing you sooner than I thought.
Love
Nancy Gillum-Stewart
Sylvia Davis-Cleveland
September 11, 2011
Remembering you today and always, Malissa.
Kathie Goodin
September 11, 2011
so proud to have know and played basketball with Malissa in high junior high school. What a gem she and her family are. Her profile sounds like she has continued her servant spirit throughout her life.
Kathie Goodin Cothern
Donnie Sewell
September 2, 2011
Hi,
My name is Donnie Sewell. I'm the editor of the Three Rivers Edition of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, which covers the Bald Knob area. We we hoping to get in touch with family members/friends of Malissa White for a story for our Sept. 11 issue. If anyone can or would be willing to help us find someone to contact, could you please email me at [email protected] or call (501) 918-4527. Thank you
beejay mcdonald
August 24, 2011
aunty malissa...i wiil always miss and u will always be in my heart. I LOVE U May the lord have you in his arms.
Eddie Allgood
December 27, 2009
May the lord have you in his arms and your family in his heart.I had the honor of growing up and going to school with Malissa, and later after school and college working with her at Wal-Mart Dist, she was a loving ,friend . She is often on my mind and will always be a HERO May God Bless her family .
September 11, 2009
September 11, 2009
Malissa it is hard to believe another year is gone. You are still my best friend. I will always remember your friendship and hope I might be just like you when I grow up.
Nancy Gillum-Stewart
September 11, 2009
Many good memories from BK. Your time was short but you'll always be remembered.
Tammy Worley
September 11, 2009
Remembering Malissa and family today...
Opal(Fry)Dorris
Marva Baker-Holiday
September 11, 2009
WOW! I didn't realize this site existed until today. I am one of MANY of Malissa's cousins. On behalf of our family, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you that thought enough of Malissa to sign this guest book! We know that she touched people all over the world and that her handprint will be left on numerous hearts. If you had an opportunity to meet Malissa, I know that you had your own special bond with her as she made everybody feel individually special. We are thankful for the time that God allowed us to have with her. If anybody was ready for Heaven, it was Malissa. As our family is sad while enduring this great void, we rejoice knowing that Malissa is safe in HIS arms. We do have a scholarship in her memory that was established by Marsh & McClennon. We ask that every September 11th, that you donate a minimum of $11. IF you would like to make a donation, you may email me at [email protected] and I'll email the form to you. ALL donations are tax deductible. Help us to honor her memory and keep it alive! Once again, thank you all for the kind words, loving support, and humble prayers.
E Dean Frederick
September 16, 2008
Lorenzo has entered his first year of college at the Univ of Southern MS. Seems that your spirit continues to watch over this child. Miss You,
Dean, Martha and Lorenzo
Nancy Gillum-Stewart
September 15, 2008
I will always remember you as my best friend. You were closer to me than a sister. I know you are in heaven and I live to meet you there. We relocated to Texas (Smile). Love forever. Stewart and I are still together.
Ronald Coleman jr
September 11, 2008
Malissa, I also worked with you at Young & Rubicam. You were one of the greatest people I've ever met. Thanks to you helping me with my resume when you were strapped for time, i landed a good job. My family and I cherish every day we succeed, THANKS TO YOU. MAY GOD BLESS YOU EVERY SINGLE DAY
Opal Dorris
September 11, 2008
Malissa, and all that knew & loved her.
Thinking of you...
Opal (Fry) Dorris
Delores Monroe
August 29, 2008
I remember Malissa, she was such a beautiful person. I wrote her a song and hopefully someday to put it on CD. She will alway be in my heart.
E Dean Frederick
September 14, 2007
Wow Melissa, Lorenzo turns 18 today and one of the sad things about it is that you would have been the first to call him. We miss you so much. E. Dean, Martha and Lorenzo Frederick.
Opal Dorris
September 11, 2007
To Malissa's family; You have been in my heart, mind and prayers today. When I think of Malissa. I think of her happy, smiling face most of all, and how nice she always was to me. May God continue to bless & compfort you. Much love, Opal (Fry)Dorris (classmate Bald Knob, AR)
P Tabbernor
April 18, 2007
In memory....
Luis Hernandez
September 27, 2006
I too remember Malissa White from her days at Y&R she always had a ready smile everytime she walked into the Fax center to say hello to me and my co-workers. The world will miss that smile.
Rose A. Whitelow
September 12, 2006
Malissa, You were always a kind, wonderful, and caring person. Your personality was superb! God has a beautiful angel in heaven. Your family will always have peace knowing you were a blessing in their lives. You will be never be forgotten!
Yolanda Pettis
September 11, 2006
Hey cousin. I thought of you on this day and many other days. Everyone misses you. You were such a pleasant person to be around. You are in such a better place. Please watch over us because I know you have wings.
Love,
E. Dean Frederick
September 11, 2006
Malissa,
Hard to believe five years have passed. We miss your bright smile daily, Martha, Dean and Lorenzo Frederick.
Tammy White-Carpenter
September 11, 2006
I can't believe that it has been five years without you. I know that you are an angel in heaven still taking care of everyone. You will forever be missed, I love you always your cousin Tammy "2".
Anyika Nelson
September 11, 2005
Malissa,
I thought about you today, I called your niece, whom is my best friend just to tell her I love you because I know how much she misses you.
A few months ago I was walking buy the WTC and saw your name without looking for it. A rush of emotions filled me and I cried for you. I cried because of the worlds loss of a great woman. The wall of names drew me directly to your name and it was such a powerful pull.
On this day I remember you and your loved ones.
Cathy Clausing
September 11, 2003
As we pass yet another anniversary I remember Malissa from my years at Young & Rubicam. What sticks in my mind is her kindness, gentle nature and unforgettable smile. On this day I honor her memory and wish her family continued strength.
Lisa Wiggins
September 11, 2003
Remembering Malissa on this day. She was the perfect coworker at Young & Rubicam. Began each day with a smile that would last throughout the day. She loved children and would always ask about my son, Pop. (She called him Pops.)
Wishing her family continued peace, mercy, and grace.
Lisa & Pop.
Allison Yamamoto
September 20, 2002
I had the honor of meeting Malissa's cousin Marva recently in NYC for the memorial services. Though I did not personally know Malissa, what an incredible treasure she was for the many lives she touched. Malissa, may your soul rest in peace, and as an angel in heaven, please look after your family. I send your family much love and prayers for healing.
Joyce Flynn
September 14, 2002
I work with Malissa's sister, and if she was anything like her sister, I can, even though I did not know her, fully understand why a great person was lost from this earth but now resides in a heavenly place. My heartfelt condolences to her immediate family and friends.
Victoria Thomas- Rahiman
September 13, 2002
Malissa, I wanted to tell you that I love you and miss you dearly. It is a year later and I still think of you always. To her family, thank you for raising such a remarkable, loving and compassionate person. We need more people like her in this world. I am grateful to have an angel like Malissa on my side. God bless you always!
Janine Brown (Skipper)
September 9, 2002
I've known Malissa since as long as I can remember. She was and will always be in my mind one of the most caring and genuine people I know. I was 16 when I really realized how special she was. She had never been on a plane and she wanted to go and see her boyfriend who lived in New York. She asked my parents if it was ok if I went with her. It was my first and only time to New York. She started to cry as the plane took off and the only thing I could think to do (at 16) was to hold her hand and I held her hand the whole way there. I never got a chance to tell her how much I enjoyed that trip. I loved her and will miss her dearly.
Jane Meyer
September 9, 2002
I have an armband with Malissa's name on it to remember her and her family. I read her biography and she is an outstanding woman and I know she is enjoying her eternal reward. Know that she and all of her family are in my thoughts and prayers especially as we approach the anniversary of her death. God bless her and her family.
Love,
Sister Jane Meyer
St. Agnes Academy
Houston, TX
Deborah Cunningham
September 8, 2002
Malissa was a warm, wonderful,intelligent,caring and loving Christian. I met Malissa when we belonged to the Calvary Unified Freewill Baptist Church under the leadership of Bishop Clenso Allen. When she became a part of the church family she did not hesitate to begin her service for the Lord. Malissa would always greet you with a smile that was just so wonderful to see. Malissa is truly missed by many. I know that you are still smiling with all the angels surrounding you.
We miss you, forever in our hearts
Deborah & Crystal.
Dannette Jackson
September 4, 2002
One of the best person that you can know.
Joice M. Dunn
June 14, 2002
I remember Malissa as a student at Grambling State University along with her sister and I met the brother briefly.
You will never know how I felt when I received the news on the phone, just out of the blue.
I know Malissa is in a better place because the Lord needed another angel.
May God bless her family and give you strength. If there is something that I can do please let me know.
Eli BLACKWELL
June 6, 2002
Melissa will always be missed and loved. I met her at Grambling State University in the mid-80's and she was always very soft spoken and sweet. I will always remember her as a very kind person.
Jason Gale
May 23, 2002
I carry a Mercy band for Malissa White. I have read so many wonderful things about her, and I am so saddened for her friends and family that lost such a wonderful woman. I am a police officer, and every time I look at her band, I am reminded of why exactly I chose to be in law Enforcement: To protect the good, and insure justice prevails. God bless the friends and family of Malissa. Please e-mail with any information you are willing to share, so that I can better know Malissa.
Catherine Tompos
March 12, 2002
To Malissa's Family and Friends:
I worked with Melissa at Y&R and she introduced me to one of the greatest bosses I ever worked for. I had spoken to her just the day before the attack. I was going for a position at Marsh & McClennan the day of the attack. She always thought about me and if I was ok and working. I always called her "My angel", cause she truly was.
Rest in peace, Malissa! You truly are an angel now and your kindness and light will never be extinquished.
Linda Less
March 11, 2002
I am still in shock to have found Malissa's name on this list. I had finally gotten up the courage to search the names to see who I had know during all my years working in NYC. I worked with Malissa at Y&R for a brief time but remember how warm and caring she always was. It always seemed that she was having a great day. That was very inspirational to me. I will pray for the family she has left behind and know that their life will never be the same. But, I know Malissa is giving them the strength to go on through her place in heaven with her Maker. God Bless you All!
Jennifer F
January 23, 2002
I met Malissa in 1998 when I was a sales rep trying to get an account with Y&R. I spoke to Malissa and she gave me a chance to come in and present to her. In our meeting she was as she is described by her loved ones; sweet, soft spoken and open minded. I was shocked today to learn that someone I had briefly known was at WTC. One of her coworkers broke down to me on the phone today when I called there and asked for her. She was a guiding light for those around her and I hope Malissa is at peace in heaven.
Lauren Miller Hernandez
January 3, 2002
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Malissa. She interviewed and ultimately hired me when I began working at Y&R almost 4 years ago, and I remember her as a warm, caring individual -- always willing to listen and genuinely interested in what I had to say. I pray that she is at peace and my heart goes out to her family and friends.
December 12, 2001
MAY GOD BLESS YOU MALISSA WHITE AND
MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.GOD BLESS YOUR
FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA
AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
Teresa Jahn
December 2, 2001
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Victoria Thomas
November 27, 2001
I worked with Malissa at Marsh for a little under a year in the Human Resources Department. She and I were colleagues who sat side by side each other at 1 World Trade Center. During tough times, I would talk to Malissa who would calm my worries and tell me everyday that I was destined for nothing but success. She continued to keep in touch with me even after I lost my job, just two months prior to the tragedy. Keep praying she would say. Keep God close to your heart. Nothing but goodness ever came out of her mouth and I strived to be just like her. She and I spoke of spirituality and God's will quite often and it is a comfort to know that her faith in GOD was wrapped around her on September 11. What keeps me strong today is knowing that Malissa is up there on our side...working as our soldier, the same way she did for us on earth. These days, I watch my actions because I do not wish for Malissa to be disappointed in me. Her goodness echoes through my heart everyday. I know that she would want me to act with the best intentions and live the way God would want me to live. Malissa is not with us physically but she remains with us in spirit. I cry tears of happiness at times because I KNOW that Malissa is with her maker. To her family and friends, I would like for you to know that you were her pride and joy. She talked of "Y'all" quite often. You are in my prayers.
Tammy Brown-McKinney
November 21, 2001
Melissa will be missed by all. She was a wonderful, loving and gifted female who had her entire future to look forward to and now she still has that future being at home with the Father who we know is watching over her.
Melissa Rivas
November 6, 2001
I am an ex-coworker of Malissa's from Y&R. I remember the first day I met her, she greeted me in the Lobby of Y&R, she met me on break and introduced me to the staff I'd be working with, she also gave a list of places to have lunch. She wanted everything to be perfect. She always had my respect, Malissa had a strong sense of follow-through and made all of us in a support position look really good. She only wanted the best of the best working with us. We stayed in touch briefly after Y&R and time escaped us......
I wish her family my most hearfelt condolences - You always remember the people that have an impact in your life.......
Always,
Melissa Rivas
Florence Shirley
November 6, 2001
Malissa and I worked together on many projects. She was kind and considerate to everyone she came in contact with ... she always had a smile on her face ... she was a great person to know ... we laughed and cried together ... A part of Malissa will always remain at Y&R. To her family, you have my deepest sympathy. May the love of God be with you always, especially in your time of grief ... Hold on to God's unchanging hand.
Florence
Shirley Gary
November 6, 2001
May the Peace of the lord be with you
Cynthia Ellington
November 3, 2001
I am truly heartbroken and saddened by the loss. Melissa was a wonderful and beautiful person who I met while working at Young & Rubicam. While those days are far removed, I have good memories of my relationship with Melissa. She was caring, kind and compassionate. My prayers are with her family that God will give you strength and comfort.
Cynthia Ellington
Eddie Allen
November 2, 2001
"As pleasant and helpful a person as you would ever want to know" is how I will remember Malissa. She was not only my co-worker at Y&R, she was also a friend. I will remember her and her family in my prayers always.
Edward Grima
November 2, 2001
I will always remember Malissa"s smile and pleasent manner whenever I visited her at her office in Y&R. Working with her was always a pleasure and she will be missed.
Duane Griffith
November 1, 2001
Malissa gave me my first start in Technology at Y&R and her door was alway open to me and to everyone that she knew. She was a friend. She will be greatly missed, and always remembered.
Melissa Marquez
November 1, 2001
May the lord have you in his arms and your family in his heart.
Peggy Clement
October 31, 2001
May God bless your family. Thank you for giving up your life for all Americans.
You are my hero.
May you rest in peace.
Kasandra Pantoja
October 23, 2001
May God Bless you and your family and grant you peace.
john hart
October 12, 2001
Peace to the family of Malissa White. God Blees your family and friends.
Rebecca Rodriguez
October 10, 2001
Dear Friends and Family of Malissa White,
I prayed it wasn't so when I saw her name, but then followed her picture-I worked with Malissa at Young and Rubican in the HR Dept. I was only temping and reported to Malissa on a dailey basis- I often would come in late but she never complaind to me or my Temp. agency- She was always very helpful and not once do I remember her being upset for any reason, in fact she always wore a smile and always spoke very soft and pleasant. My heart goes out to everyone she left behind-may god bless her and may she rest in peace!
PS. Malissa, Thanks for helping me get my first I.D.card at Y&R! YOU WILL BE MISSED!
With Love and Respect Rebecca
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