James Elmer White

James Elmer White, a cherished member of the Port Arthur community, passed away on October 6, 2024, at the age of 99. Born on July 4, 1925, in Port Arthur, Texas, James lived a life marked by dedication, service, and a profound love for his family.

He graduated from Port Neches High School before earning his Bachelor of Science Industrial Engineering from Texas A&M University. His professional career was highlighted by his tenure at Texaco in Port Arthur. James was not only a skilled engineer and a registered professional engineer, but also an esteemed member of his community. Throughout his life, he held several significant roles, including serving as the Past President of the 103rd Infantry Division of World War II Association and as the Pact Commander of VFW Post 4820 in Port Neches, Texas. For 13 years, he chaired the Golden Triangle Veterans Memorial Park, contributing to the memorialization of those who served.

James' military service was both distinguished and decorated. He served in the Army infantry during World War II, retiring with the rank of Major in the Corps of Engineers. His dedicated service earned him numerous accolades, including a Combat Infantryman Badge, the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, and the European-African-Middle East Medal with two battle stars.

A life-long member of the Groves Masonic Lodge #1315 AF & AM and the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 1991, James was also an active participant in First Baptist Church in Groves, Texas. His personality was a blend of warmth, commitment, and a deep sense of duty, qualities that endeared him to all who knew him.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Pauline Beal White; his parents, Elmer and Golder White; and his brother, J. Dewey White. He is survived by his three sons: James N. White and his wife Patricia of Corpus Christi, Jerry White and his wife Debbie of Port Neches, and Ronnie L. White and his wife Staci of Denham Springs, Louisiana. James' legacy continues through his six grandchildren: Christie Hayes and her husband Justin, Bryan White and his wife Kayla, Shelly Tyler and her husband Wesley, Jeff White, Breanna White, and Trent Dunkin. He is also survived by nine great-grandchildren: Carter Hayes, London Hayes, Jonah Hayes, Marley Hayes, Meagan Hayes, Ethan Hayes, Grayson White, Hannah Tyler, and Ethan Tyler, who brought him immense joy and pride in his later years.

A visitation will be held on October 10, 2024, at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home, 2001 Nall St, Port Neches, Texas. A Graveside service will be held at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches where James will receive full Military Honors for his dedicated service to his country.  James Elmer White leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service, love, and dedication to his family and community, remembered fondly by all whose lives he touched.

The family would like to express a special thanks to his caregiver, Cierra Jones, for the compassionate and loving care she always gave to James.

Memorial contributions can be made in Memory of James to VFW Post #4820, P.O. Box 83, Port Neches, Texas 77651.