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Edward White Obituary
Edward A. White
Resident of San Francisco
78, passed away on July 27, 2011. His dedication to the San Jose Unified School District as a passionate High School English Teacher leaves a far reaching legacy of kindness, love and the pursuit of life-long learning.
Ed was survived by his brother Mike, his sister Mary and his many loving nieces and nephews. Condolences can be sent via email to [email protected]. Contributions should be made in his memory to Children's International.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Edward White
Stan Pond
August 9, 2024
Mr. White was my San Jose High English teacher, class of '69. He inspired me with his knowledge, ability to communicate and the richness of his humor. He was kind. I recall that his biggest issue was, "why can't makers of socks create high socks that don't fall down to your ankles?" LOL Mr. White inspired me to be an English Major at UC Davis. I will be forever thankful for him.
Stan Pond
August 5, 2023
"Mr. White" was a clever and inspirational teacher. My favorite teacher ever. I'll always remember him.
Cynthia Rodriguez
March 19, 2012
March 19,2012
I am one of those students who would sit in class and just listen to the responses/ideas of students and not have the courage to voice my agreement or disagreement with statements made....but I could write and let my reader, yes Mr. White, know my thoughts and feelings...I remember him encouraging me to find my voice and let people know what I thought. He was right. I think of him often and thank him for his push to speak my mind...I think this is what I give my students now...especially the quiet ones. Thank you Mr. White.
Stan Pond
March 19, 2012
Ed White was an amazing teacher. He was part of an incredible and inspirational group of English teachers at San Jose High School in the 1960's, and he inspired me to major in English when I left as part of the class of 1969. His commitment and quick wit will be sorely missed...
Sylvia French Kennedy
October 15, 2011
I am one of the countless former students whose life was forever changed by the wisdom, kindness and generosity of Mr. White. In ninth grade Mr. White invited me to attend a workshop on how to apply to college. Along with five other students, I squeezed into his tiny red car. I later realized that his kind invitation marked the start of an educational journey that would end only after I graduated from college and law school. His unwaivering confidence in his students gave me the courage to believe in myself. (SJH class of 1986)
October 15, 2011
I was truly heartbroken when I heard of his death today. Mr. White was my whole world when I was in High School. I never met anyone as thoughtful and truly honest about who he was and about the world around him. He taught literature at San Jose High but he taught me about life more then anything. I spent countless hours talking with him after school and during school about what we read in class and about what I was experiencing in my life. He always had an open ear and heart. He instilled in me a desire and passion for learning and the capacity to ask tough questions as well as really looking at the world with clarity. He was a true teacher who saw that ever student had the ability to succeed. When I left San Jose High I felt I was a thinking human being that had a purpose in the world. My life has been richer for having had this teacher and I honor him every day as I walk into my own classroom of high school students hoping that I have the same passion with my students that he had with us. There is not a day that goes by in my own teaching career that I do not think of him. When I am reading a book or poetry I think of this man who taught me how to appreciate the beauty around me. He has always been the inspiration that has moved me and carried me on in this world and I am grateful for having had him as my teacher. All my love to you Mr. White.
Yolanda Guerra
Benjamin Alexander
October 4, 2011
Mr. White was one of the best teachers I've had. He was passionate about literature and inspired it in others. He would go to great lengths to help his students. It was an honor to have him as a teacher and he will be sorely missed.
Jo Thorpe
September 27, 2011
Mr White was my English teacher at SJHS back in the 70's. In addition, he was our neighbor when we lived on South 16th Street. I remember his teaching because my Mom had been an English teacher, and my step-dad was a news writer. My parents saw to it that I received my lessons at every meal. Mr White's classes served to reinforce what was being drilled into me at home.
Garrick W.
September 27, 2011
I could spend days organizing my thoughts and praise for this Teacher. I think it boils down to this: he did an exceedingly good job in challenging my intellectual hold on literature and life (l&l), while supporting my critique of and approach to both. I loved how he would show us the inherent ironies of l&l with humor and the implicit challenge to make sense of them. Here's to Ed White!!!!
Dan Shahin
September 25, 2011
Ed White was the only thing I missed about San Jose High after leaving as a Sophomore. His passion for literature and teaching came through in a way I've never seen before or since. He would probably not remember me, but I'll never forget him.
Rachel Salas
September 25, 2011
Mr. White took my lack luster interest for literature and and turned it into a light that opened my mind and heart to the beauty of the written word. He impacted my life and while it was happening I did not undestand to what extent. He birthed a love for poetry in me and I have written ever since. NO ONE could deliver The Tell Tale Heart the way he could. I'm saddened by his loss but boy, did heaven ever get an angel to add to it's army :) . Peace and love to all who loved him. (SJH,1988)
Deanna Jones
September 25, 2011
Mr. White was an amazing English teacher. I was lucky to have been in his classes twice at SJHA. I offer my condolences to his family and friends in this difficult time. (Deanna Rago Jones class of 1992)
Benjamin Schein
September 24, 2011
Mr. White turned me on to literature. He gave me a passion for Shakespeare and he inspired me to broaden my horizons. He will be sorely missed. Benjamin Schein (Class of 1993).
September 2, 2011
Mr. White was an inspiration to us all at SJH while I was a student there. He will always remain one of my favorite teachers as he challenged us to work harder and aim higher than we ever imagined. Peace to all who will miss him as I do already. ~Salvador Benavides/Class of 1981
Regina Aning
September 1, 2011
It is so sad when an inspirational person to you passes away... Mr. White had a way with this students that kept us engaged, even with a subject like English! I know I will always remember him and hope he is at peace. ~ Regina Aning, Class of 1981
Onofre Ramirez
August 24, 2011
Mr. White, You Were A Teacher That Listened, & Taught With Humor, You Told Students The Facts Of Life Without Beating Around The Bush, It Was A Honor To Be In Your Class, You Will Be Missed
Annabell Aguilar
August 24, 2011
Mr. White was an Amazing Teacher, a Great Mentor , he will be Truly missed. So Sorry to hear of his passing, May He R.I.P. My Condolences to His Family and Loved ones. SJHS Bulldogs Class of 1985-Annabell Aguilar (San Jose, CA). Our death is not an end if we can live on in our children and the younger generation. For they are us, our bodies are only wilted leaves on the tree of life. ~Albert Einstein
cherie wallace
August 23, 2011
When I think back to 1985/86..I truly appreciate Mr. White...He had a way with inspiring me to look deeper at myself, my thoughts,and beliefs..He had a way of encouraging me to be independent, and resourceful..I have thought of him often..hoping to see him again someday..hope to still..........Cherie Wallace-Christian(Fox Island Wa..)
Richard Saucedo
August 15, 2011
Mr. White was a great teacher. He truly inspired us as students. I remember the great times and discussions in his classroom. He was truly one of my favorite teachers at San Jose High Academy. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Thank you Mr. White.--Richard Saucedo Class of 1988.
Andy Waddell
August 15, 2011
Ed was a great mentor and a tremendous inspiration to me as a teacher. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. -- Andy Waddell
August 14, 2011
Mr. White changed my life. I wish I would have told him while he was alive.
Senior World Lit.
Wanda Ferranti-West
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