Charles Joseph "Joe" White

Charles Joseph White of Leesburg, Florida, passed away peacefully at the age of 97 at home, with Ruth, his devoted wife of 41 years, by his side. He entered into the joy of salvation, hearing the words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

Joe was born on August 14, 1928, in Orlando, Florida, to Charles and Mary White. He completed his education in Orlando and enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II. He served honorably as a First-Class Petty Officer aboard the USS Hawkins and other naval vessels, working as a radar man. In addition, he served at the Kodiak, Alaska Naval Base in Ground Control Approach.

Following his military service, Joe began a career as a civil servant, working as a government contractor with RCA. He served aboard a downrange tracking ship, monitoring missile launches from Cape Canaveral. He later worked for Martin Marietta in Orlando as an associate engineer. Afterward, Joe began a second career with the Orlando Post Office, from which he retired in 1975. Joe's awards and recognitions included the World War II Victory Medal, the China Award, and the American Theater Good Conduct Award.

Joe was a member of the First Baptist Church of Leesburg and a generous supporter of Christian humanitarian causes. His passion project was raising funds for World Vision International, through which he sponsored children and supported families in need around the world. Joe completed the General Bible Course at Liberty University in 1995.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Ruth; his nephews Kenny, Marty and Mark Liles; his sister-in-law Marilyn Crist; his brothers-in-law Wes Crist and Loren Hawthorne; and many cherished great-nieces and great-nephews.

A military service will be held at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida on February 9th at 1:00 pm. A gathering at 3:30 pm will follow at the First Baptist Church Chapel of Leesburg, 220 N13th Street.

Arrangements are entrusted to Page-Theus Funeral Home of Leesburg, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Leesburg or to World Vision International.