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Louie White Obituary

When Louie White joined the Austin Police Department in 1959 , there were only seven black police officers and none of them were allowed to arrest white suspects.

He began his career as a police officer at a time when both the city and the department were deeply mired in pre-Civil Rights-era racism, but he perservered and was promoted to captain, later leading the department's diversity hiring initiative in the 1970s and recruiting a new generation of young, black police officers.

White, one of Austin's first African American police officers and one of the most influential black leaders in the city's history, died Saturday morning at St. David's Medical Center. He was 76.

He served on the force for 29 years and retired in 1988. He remained active in the community until his death, including serving as a board member for the Austin NAACP for two decades.

Local NAACP President Nelson Linder said White rarely missed meetings despite health problems brought on by advancing age, and was even involved in the firefighter union contract negotiations last month.

"He's the single most important black man in this city's history, in terms of being a role model," Linder said. "Capt. White was the model of community policing."

White was born in Mexia, Texas near Waco, the youngest of eight children. He moved to Austin to be with his older sister and later joined the police department, said his niece, Betsy Mayfield.

"I think it was just his love of family and community, and wanting to make things better" that drove him to become a police officer, Mayfield said. "He was really sincere about helping anyone he could." White didn't just fight to enforce the law on the streets of Austin - he had to battle bigotry within the uniformed ranks as well.

When he joined the police department, black officers could only work in East Austin, said Assistant City Manager Mike McDonald , a former officer mentored by White. The word "nigger" was extremely prevalent at cadet school, White told the Austin American-Statesman in 1992.

In 1972, White put himself in the line of fire to save a hostage and was awarded the department's medal of valor. But he didn't get his picture taken at a big ceremony like a white officer would. Instead, his superiors just tossed the medal onto his desk.

"That was the era he came through," McDonald said. "He told stories to all of us to say the challenges we faced were miniscule compared to what the first black and Hispanic officers faced."

In spite of that, White had a decorated career as an officer, earning many awards and commendations. In the 1970s, Chief Frank Dyson placed White in charge of recruiting and training, and he oversaw the hirings and careers of many black officers, including Cathy Ellison, who would go on to become an assistant chief and acting chief before retiring last year.

She said Saturday she remembers how he continually went to bat for the officers he recruited.

"Once he recruited you, he followed your whole career and made sure you were okay," Ellison said. "A lot of us had our careers as long as we did because of what Capt. White did for us."

Ellison said White wasn't the type to go fishing when he retired. After he left the department, he spent the next 20 years following it closely, keeping track of new recruits, and was critical of the department's use of force policies against minorities.

In 2006, he was finally awarded the medal of valor he earned in that hostage situation decades earlier with a proper ceremony.

"Captain White was a man of courage who was known as a trail blazer for others who followed him," said Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo. "He will be sorely missed by the men and women of the Austin Police Department as well as the City of Austin."

Still, his niece Mayfield remembers him as the man who used to come by her mother's house on his breaks and make sure everything was okay at her house.

"I think he made a difference," Mayfield said. "He was one of those special men whom you would hear a lot of men and women say, `I respect him.'"

Patrick George, American-Statesman staff; [email protected]; 445-3851
Published by Dayton Daily News from Dec. 27, 2008 to Jan. 27, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Louie White

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49 Entries

Jan

February 7, 2024

I sm so sorry to read that Mr. White has passed. I am proud of his heroism, though!! He was a gentle man from what I remember as a child. Well done, Sir!!!

Jan

February 5, 2024

I think this is the Mr. White who was my best friend's(Michelle) father when my family and I lived in Austin from 1966-68! I am sorry to read that he passed away as I believe he is indeed the officer I remember as Officer Friendly aka (Michelle's Dad)!

With love and deep respect

chris lopez

May 25, 2020

I served as a police officer with APD from 1966-1974. When I left, I believe Louie was stil a Senior Patrolman after 15 years of service. Many men who were not fit to shine his shoes had been promoted up and over him, and these with but a few years of service on the PD. Despite the tribulations he endured, Louie was also one of the kindest men I ever met, and I loved and respected him. No one who worked with him ever needed to be worried about him having their back. He was a brave man, and few were his equal. Yes there were racists on that department in those years, but to Louie's eternal credit he treated even them in a Christlike manner. He richly deserved promotion up to the rank so long denied him, for he was a great man. I am presently writing a book about those years, and i invite input from any of this good man's family and friends. He, and my dear friends Fred Maxwell, Limuel Hunter, Henry Ahart, Joe Davis and Lawrence Houston have my deepest respect. Many were their trials during those years of harsh racism on the department, but I can say honestly that there were no better men working there. By their valor and the dignity with which they carried themselves in he most trying circumstances they were an example to all. I loved and admired them. Chris Lopez APD 1966-1974 [email protected] 512/569-0906

louie white

January 13, 2019

I truly miss you. I wish we had spent more time in the country fishing. Louie White, Jr.

Jacquelyne Howard

April 24, 2015

I miss you.

Always in my heart.

Jacquelyne Howard

February 17, 2015

Dad,

You have been on my mind all week. As I sit and look out the window as a young buck and doe make their way through the snow I want to take a picture and send it to you.

I still cannot believe you are gone. Although it has been 7 years it still feels like yesterday.

I miss you,
Your baby girl, Jacquelyne M. White Howard

Louie White

October 21, 2014

I miss you dearly. Louie White Jr.

sylvia guy

February 2, 2010

mr. white i give you the highest respect on this earth along with my dad , you had the same qualifications as my dad i would have gone to the end of this planet . what ever he needed i was there. i know they are holding up the force with watchful eyes. sylvia louise fagan

Michelle Freeman

January 4, 2009

Deacon White was a very special man. He was always friendly, steady and loyal. He was truly a man of God and an inspiration to all with whom he came in contact. He inspired my brother, retired Senior Seargent John Jones to be all he could be as a member of the Austin Police Department. My blessings to the family of Deacon Louie White as they grieve his loss. May he rest in peace in the arms of our most Blessed Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen

Pauline Evans

January 2, 2009

Across the miles from Florida come loving thoughts today. For Capt. White"s dear family, God's comfort we would pray. How many fine accomplishments, a good man"s life can span, example clear of what to do when our own lives we scan. To praise and honor God each day by what we say and do. A better world for every one when God can count on you. In Christ's love, Pauline Evans

Hopeton Hay

January 2, 2009

Captain White was truly an outstanding citizen, battling for justice for all. Our prayers are with the White family.

Pauline Evans

January 2, 2009

Across the miles from Florida come loving thoughts today; for Capt. White's dear family, God's comfort we would pray. How many fine accomplishments, a good man's life can span, example clear of what to do when our own lives we scan. To praise and honor God each day by what we say and do, a better world for every one when God can count on you. In Christ's love,

Marion Anderson

January 1, 2009

I AM SO VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOST OF A LOVE ONE AND YOUR BEST FRIEND I WAS A VERY YOUNG GIRL GREW UP IN THE EAST AUSTIN AREA AND HAVE ALWAYS RESPECTED THE CAPTAIN AS I GREW UP KNOWING THAT THE GENERATIONS WOULD CHANGE SOME DAY THAT HE IT WOULD SURLY SHOW HOW HE
MAY A GREAT INPACT ON THE LIVES OF OFFICERS,KIDS TO ALWAYS REMEMBER HE ALWAYS TOLD THE KIDS THAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN TROUBLED HOW TO GET THERE ACT TOGETHER.
MAY GOD BE WITH YOU AND BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
MARION ANDERSON

Ronnie Earle

January 1, 2009

I knew and worked with Captain White as a municipal judge in the late 'sixties and early 'seventies sand later as district attorney. I never met a finer law officer or a finer man. Everybody who worked with him was better for the experience, and the people of Austin are better for his service.

Roxanne & Kelly Evans

January 1, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with the White family. Please take comfort in knowing that the Captain truly made Austin a much more humane place.

December 31, 2008

I am so sorry to here about your loss.

Cecil Rhoades

December 31, 2008

I joined the Austin Police Force in 1962 at the age of 22. When I was assigned to work the eastside there was no better officer to back you up or assist you on a call than Louie White. I worked with him almost seven years and I considered him a real friend. My sympathy to his family for their loss.
Sincerely, Cecil Rhoades APD class of 1962

carolyn king arnold

December 30, 2008

May our Lord and Savior wrap his arms around the family and give you the strength. Your father was a trailblazer and Austin is a better place for that. Keep your heads up and continue to be proud of your father.... Carry the torch!

Phyllis Morris, Harris, Sistrunk

December 30, 2008

Debra, Pat, Louie and youngest sister. I was saddened to hear of your Dads passing. I remember those days when your father walked the streets of Austin. Over the years my mother had always mailed to me newspaper clippings when any articles were written. Debra, you and I go as far back as Elementary School and I witnessed your strength at an early age at the loss of your Mom. I have sat where you all will be seated and I know the pain for I lost both of my parents in 2003. May you take comfort in knowing your Dad lived his life his way. My condolence for the loss of a life that stood tall in many eyes.

Rev. and Mrs. Ronald Levy

December 30, 2008

Although we have never met Captain White our hearts are full while reading of a man whose heart was so LARGE!! Please know that our thoughts and prayers are continual and our love is unexpressable.

Loyce Hamlet

December 30, 2008

Lois,
My deepest regrets and sympathy for the loss of your dear husband. May the Lord bless you and keep you through this difficult time.
Love,
Soror Loyce #2

Christella CAIN

December 30, 2008

Lois,
I'm sorry to hear of the loss of your husband and best friend. Even though it's hard to see through the darkness, try to remember you'll come into the light a stronger person. I hope you'll remember you have friends who will listen and care... and I'm one of them. The Austin community will truly miss such a great man!
Love,
Chris Cain

ruthetta Winn-Lake

December 30, 2008

Debra, Pat, Louie and Family,

Take comfort in knowing that your Dad fought a good fight and he kept the faith until the end doing all he could in the Austin and surrounding area touching the lives of many and for this we are all thankful.

Hold your heads up and celebrate the fact that God has called home another soldier.

Having sat where you will sit I can tell you that "God is Good" and he will wipe away ALL of your tears and heal your heart.

"God is Good"

Brenda Burrell

December 30, 2008

Lois,
My prayers are with you during this time of loss. Capt White will truly be missed. But also know that you are truly loved. You, too, have given much to the Greater Austin community and we wrap our arms around you. If there is anything you need, we are willing to be of service to you.

Brenda Newman Burrell

Anonymous

December 30, 2008

What a truly long way we have come.

And Captain White with his gallantry, strength and courage was one of the best-loved Community leaders in Austin!

And what a legacy he leaves for ALL of us.

Captain White was an inspiration for ALL people and how he overcame with hard work, determination and strong character is a good example of success in any endeavor.

He was an excellent mentor and a very good person. We need more people like him to encourage the young people in Austin today!

God bless him and his family.

He will join a fine group of heroes in HEAVEN!

10-7, 10-42, Captain White.

You will be missed more than you know here;God really does choose the very best.

Patty Hall

December 29, 2008

Dear Lois,
So many years have passed but I still think of you as one of
my best friends. My prayers and thoughts are with you in
your time of sorrow. May God Bless you and take care of
you in your hour of need.
Love,
Patty Hall from Webb Days

Isabel Johnson

December 29, 2008

Dear Mrs.White With deepest sympathy on your lost I knew Capt. White from APD He was very kind and respectable He was always willing to help anyone who came to him.

Carolyn Bawcom

December 29, 2008

Dear Lois,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God wrap you in His arms and give you comfort during this difficult time.

Joan Altobelli

December 29, 2008

Dear Lois and Family,

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Captain White. Everyone should read his book about the history of African Americans in the Austin Police Department. This is a significant historical document housed in the archives of the Austin Historical Society. I recently quoted Captain White's words in my paper written to fulfill requirements of a doctoral class. He was a pillar in the community whose legacy will long be remembered and cherished in Texas. God Bless you, Lois.

Nancy Crayton Jones

December 29, 2008

To the White Family,
Louie and I were in the original L. C. Anerson High School Band and were also classmates. Louie was indeed a friend to all of us who attended school with him. He will truly be missed by all of us.
My prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the wonderful memories of his life wiht you.
May God continue to bless and keep each of you.
A former classmate,
Nancy Crayton Jones

Diana White Harris Alexander

December 29, 2008

To The White and Medlock families: I am so happy I had Louie in my life. He was a kind and generous man. He was there when I needed him and will be sorely missed. From all of my family, Diana White Harris Alexander,Lucius Hodge Alexander, Lucius Joel Alexander, Christopher Louis Alexander, And Christina Louise Alexander we send our sincere condolences to both families.

Raette Hearne

December 29, 2008

Mrs. White,
Please know the Smith and Hearne families are covering you in believing prayer during this season.
God Bless.

Greg Travillion

December 29, 2008

To: L.White, family, and friends,

My thoughts and prayers are with you in our time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Larry & Sherryl Tasby

December 29, 2008

Dear Lois Jean and Family,

We were saddened to hear of the passing of Deacon White. He was always the most respectful and courteous man we have ever known. Only time can heal the pain and hurt. From your old swimming partner and church friends, you have our deepest sympathy and prayers.

James Delvesco

December 28, 2008

Louie White came to speak to my school, and it was one of the most inspiring things that I have ever heard. As a thank you, both for speaking to us, and for making a difference in the community we gave him a Texas clock, to symbolize how he helped change Texas by being strong and fighting racism in the police force. He will be greatly missed.

Gloria Bedford

December 28, 2008

Ms. Lois

My prayers are with you and your family. May God strength you.

Your friend, Gloria Bedford

Renita Sanders

December 28, 2008

To The White Family: The Sanders Family would like to express our condolences at this difficult time. I am so grateful that I was able to work with Captain White on the NAACP Board as well as gain a dear friend and mentor. Captain White was a legend in his own right and will be missed immensely! May God bless The White Family and know that we will keep you in prayer.

The Sanders- Bruce, Renita and Makeisha

Kaye Fullylove

December 28, 2008

My condolences Chief Louie White's Family. I did not know him personally, but just reading and thinking about his legacy I feel as if I've met him before.
I have known his son Dr. Louie White since we were both young in our Radio careers in Dallas. I have little doubt about his influence and inspiration to his son Dr. White.
Chief White was such a Trail Blazer and inspiration for all people, especially blacks. Austin has lost a giant in the community and I know he will be missed by all.
I will keep you all in my prayers.

Jackie Goodman

December 28, 2008

I'm very sorry for the family's personal loss, & the community's. There's no question his personal & professional presence made a difference here. In remembering that, he'll keep on making a difference.

Dorothy De La Garza

December 28, 2008

In a voice hoarse from cancer treatment, Capt. Louie White inspired 70 seventh-graders from St. Andrew's Episcopal School on April 27, 2006. His recollections of criminal justice and racial injustice became the memorable moment of their Texas History field trip. Although seated onstage at the George Washington Carver Center, he towered in their eyes, saying that he'd never drawn his pistol despite dangerous times as an Austin policeman: here was a peace officer who fought with wisdom and disarming words. Afterwards,students presented Capt. White with a Texas Star clock from the Bob Bullock Museum, symbolizing the "time" he'd waited to receive his Medal of Heroism from the City in a public ceremony. Later students toured the Texas State Cemetery, discovering sadly that only three African-Americans were buried there. How fitting it would be if Capt. White were accorded that honor--I believe those St. Andrew's students would agree. To Mrs. White, who drove your husband that day in 2006, I pray that you will be comforted by knowing how many lives your husband touched. God bless.

Ira Woolridge

December 28, 2008

Just to say he was a man I looked up to,and friend until the end.We need more men of his statue.Mr.White and me go back to the 1970:s when I started driving trucks for another friend of mine,Mr.Alonzo Marshall.Glad to have known him. (Cockroach) Ira Woolridge--Dale,Tx.

I Rodriguez

December 28, 2008

My condolences to Mr. White's family. He leaves behind a legacy of consciousness and community, and the lives he touched through his work and advocacy will forever be changed.

Sgt. Leo & Lynn Seguin

December 28, 2008

It was an honor working with him at APD.

Crystal & Tommie Jones

December 28, 2008

Dear Lois and Family,

We were saddened to hear of the loss of Deacon White. May you all be comforted in knowing you were a special part of a well-lived life. God leaves with us a gift of memories in exchange; so hold on to those memories of love and friendship, and let them guide you through this period of sadness. May the love God has for Deacon White and you make your grief bearable. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Anchored,

Cora E. Atwood-Baker

December 28, 2008

Debra, Pat, Louie, and the Family, I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Louie's passing. Just know that he is in the greatest of hands now and will suffer no more. I pray God's blessing upon you all. In Jesus Christ name - Amen!

Amos Keith

December 28, 2008

To the family and friends, my condolence for the lost of a truly great man. I met Mr. White when I first started my Law Enforcement career with Precinct One Constable's Office and again at Huston-TIllitson College. God Bless you all.

Charles M. & Carolyn S. Walker

December 28, 2008

Lois and Family,
May God give you and your Family the strength to get through this day and the days ahead. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies will be with you and the David Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Family.

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