David L. White

David L. White, known as "Whitey" to his friends, age 92, of Sullivan, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at Webco Manor in Marshfield, Missouri.
David Lee White was born on February 24, 1933, in Desloge, Missouri, to Fred and Frieda (Welsh) White. David grew up, attended school in Desloge, and achieved the remarkable feat of perfect attendance from his first day of grade school through his senior year of high school.
In November of 1952, David married Katherine Marler, and together they were blessed with six children. They would sadly later divorce. Love found David again, and in November of 1981, he married Madella Stricklin, with whom he shared many happy years until her passing in 2024.
David was drafted into the U.S. Army and served our country with honor during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955, rising to the rank of Corporal before receiving an honorable discharge. After his military service, David embarked on a successful career as a self-employed carpenter. His skilled hands and keen eye for detail meant there was nothing he couldn't build. Later, David joined Associated Craft in Sullivan, where he dedicated many years before retiring.
David's love for the outdoors was a constant throughout his life. He found joy in fishing, often retreating to his cabin on the Bourbeuse River or his country home along the Meramec River. David enjoyed the quiet scenery of the countryside.
He is survived by his children: Mike White of Texas, Sherry Sanders and husband Anthony of Saint Louis, Missouri, Terry Luecke and husband Jim of Sullivan, Missouri, Sandy Smith and husband Mike of Robertsville, Missouri, Robert White and wife Angel of Bourbon, Missouri; a daughter-in-law, Janice White of Friendship, Tennessee; seven grandchildren: Tasha Crnkovich, J.W. Luecke, Tonya Hall, Danialle Harris, Anthony Sanders, Brittany White and Casey Williams; 10 great – grandchildren; a brother, Richard White and wife Carole of Park Hill, Missouri; a sister, Shirley Gamache of Affton, Missouri; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Madella White; a son, Kenny White; a grandson, Brandon White; a great – grandson, Gregory Harris; two sisters, Patricia Vaughn and Barbara (Bobbi) White; two brother-in-laws, Nick Vaughn and Bernard Gamache.
Services will be private. David will be laid to rest next to his parents, at Odd Fellows Cemetery – Park Hills.
Friends may send their online condolences to David's family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements are under the care and direction of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of David, please visit our Tree Store.