William E. White

1932 - 2025

William E. White

September 23, 1932 - October 17, 2025

BLOOMINGTON - William E. "Bill" White, 93, of Bloomington, passed away peacefully at his home on October 17, 2025, at 5:47 p.m., surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be held Thursday, October 30, from 3 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 4 p.m. at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home in Bloomington. A graveside service will follow on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Anna City Cemetery in Anna, Ill. To share condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.

Bill was born on September 23, 1932, in Anna, Ill., to Alva and Daisy White (née Pitts). He married Catherine "Kathy" L. White on July 3, 1954, in Corinth, Miss. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathy, in 2022; and two siblings: Robert White and Francis Boes.

He is survived by five children: Chandra White of Fishers, Ind., Kim Shockey of West Chester, Ohio, Becky (Bob) Knapp of Ellisville, William L. (Barbara) White of Bloomington and Anne Marie (Jeff) Clark of Philo. He was the proud grandfather of twelve grandchildren: Dr. Taylor (Justin Joyce) Shockey, Lisa (Adam) Hemmen, Ashley (Robert) Mayfield, Mark (Lauren) Niemann, Scott (Amanda) Niemann, Audrey White, Andrew White, Rachel White, Matthew Clark, Madison (Dustin) Haake, Michael Clark, Mackenzie Clark and twelve great-grandchildren. He is also survived by three siblings: Don (Margaret) White, Carl (Shirley) White, and Mary (Don) Hawk.

Bill graduated from Anna High School in Anna, Ill. In February 1951, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and proudly served during the Korean War. He was wounded in action on May 14, 1952, and honorably discharged in January 1954. For his bravery and service, he was awarded several medals, including the Purple Heart, the Korean Service Medal with three Stars, the United Nations Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. Bill remained a proud Marine throughout his life and was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Bill spent more than 30 years working on the railroad for Illinois Central, GM&O, and Amtrak. After retiring, he continued working for another 20 years, spending winters working at a retirement home in Naples, Fla. and summers as General Manager of Hazy Hills Golf Course in Bloomington.

Bill will be remembered for always being immaculately dressed with spit-shined shoes and a polished car. His strong work ethic and sense of pride were lasting lessons to his family. Known for his quick wit and humor, Bill gave each of his grandchildren clever nicknames that will stay with them forever.

Bill was a proud Marine who loved his family and his country. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the VA, OSF Hospice, and Synergy Home Care for their compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association or the VFW of Anna, Ill. at VFW Post 3455, 70 VFW Lane, Anna, IL 62906.