Lawrence W. White

Lawrence W. White

AGE: 80 • Neptune

Lawrence W. White, a father, fireman, former Marine and friend to many, who spent most of his life in Neptune where he was born, died on the Fourth of July, at the N.J. Firemen's Home in Boonton. He was 80 years old. Prior to the Firemen's Home, he lived in Interlaken for the past seven years with his son, Robert L. White, his partner, Andrew DePrisco, and his two best friends, Shiba Inus, Chibi and Azuki.

Larry graduated from Neptune High School in 1952 and then served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1953 to 1961 when he earned honorable discharge as a Corporal. After working at White Sand and Gravel with his father, Larry joined the Teamsters Local 701 where he drove for Jersey Coast Freight Lines and Carolina Freight for 25 years.

An active volunteer fireman for most of his life, Larry served the community with the Hamilton Fire Company and served for 22 years on the board of the Neptune Township Fire Commissioners. He was a member of the American Legion Post 346 and the Masonic Temple of Neptune.

In addition to being a passionate firefighter, Larry was a diehard New York Jets fan (even though haven't "won the goddam Super Bowl since 1968!"). He loved to watch a good stockcar race or an old Western, and looked forward to reading the Press and Coaster and to cursing at the Five O'clock News before dinner. Larry treasured his many friends from town with whom he enjoyed traveling around the country and hanging out at Pete & Elda's.

Larry was the only child and much-loved son of his father Lawrence and mother Mary C. White, both of whom predeceased him. He is also predeceased by an infant son. He is survived by son, Robert L. White and his partner Andrew DePrisco (Interlaken); son, Ray L. White (Laurel, Maryland); stepsons, Cory Chappelle and his husband Robert Vieira (Ringwood), and James Chappelle (New York City); his dear friends, Pat Swan (Lakewood) and Nancy Quigley (Tinton Falls), and many other great friends who called on him frequently.

Friends are invited for viewing from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 9 at the Ely Funeral Home in Neptune. Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 10 at the funeral home, followed by internment at the Hamilton Methodist Church Cemetery. Donations in Larry's name can be made to the Hamilton Fire Company in Neptune. Condolences may also be made online at www.elyfuneralhome.com.