Norma White remembered
Please take a few moments to reflect and share about how Norma has touched your life.
Add a comment >>
"My sympathy to all the family and friends. She has been a great woman that has a tender heart and made impact to everyone around her."
-Anonymous
"Her memory will be with us forever. She has impacted numerous lives and her caring and big heart has always been a great model."
-Anonymous
"Dear Jack, I have just learned of Norma's death thru the summer issue of the Geneva Magazine. My mind was immediately flooded with many wonderful memories from our days of ministry and service thru NAE. I remember Norma for her kind spirit and the gracious manner in which she related to others. I have prayed today that God's grace will be your strength and sustain you in these days of adjustment. Darlene sends her love and greeting as we both wish you God's best.
-Billy & Darlene Melvin
"Oh the many, many memories and the thought that we won't see Norma again on this earth is heartbreaking, but she is living joyously without pain now. John and Jack knew each other at White Lake camp and then, unexpectantly were roommates at Geneva. I knew Norma in Iowa in H.S. and later times when we were in each other's weddings. I remember what a good cook Norma was and she made you feel so welcome by serving a new recipe. Norma had some sorrows as well as joys in life, but she humbly accepted what God brought into her life. As Jack had to travel, she was a loving Mom to Natalie and Stephanie and Grandma to Stephen, Jennifer, Janelle, Asa, Aiden, and Matthew. She was a quiet support to us when our Rachel died. We will miss our fun times together as well as many serious talks. May God comfort you, Jack, as only He can."
-John and Marjorie (Mitchel) Russell
"Norma has a special place in my heart as she and I connected on several deep issues. She always extended grace and love to me by seeking me out, listening to my heart and sharing her heart. The last time I saw her in December '11, she saw me first and actually chased me down and embraced me with a big hug. It was so typical of our relationship.
She was a very special lady who offered grace and love to me. I am looking forward to worshiping together in heaven."
-Sandra Joseph
"Norma was a giving caring person. She will be missed by many. Condolences to Jack and family."
-Don and Shirley Flick
"Dear Jack,
You knew me when I was in Geneva. I am from Haiti. As you see, my name is Henri Jean. You received me several times in your office, helping me to find ways to pay my tuition. Finally, you gave to me a full scholarship. Lately, as I was checking my messages, I found out that Norma has passed away. Please receive my deepest sympathy. My prayers are with you. I remembered that one day you invited all the international students to your place for a dinner. You and Norma were serving the students. What a good example of servanthood. May God receive her in His Kingdom as she used to received all king of people to show to them the love and the grace of God."
-Henri Jean
"Dear Jack: How sorry I was to hear of Norma's passing. You two made an indomitable team: faithful loving servants of God. I remember her kindness in greeting a young faculty member; and your gracious mentoring. God's peace be with you."
-Debra Freeberg
"I had the privilege of knowing Norma White for over 50 years. I remember when Jack White became pastor at the College Hill Reformed Presbyterian Church and the White's joined our congregation. What a blessing for our church. The church grew spiritually and in numbers under their leadership and care.
Norma was a humble servant of God and preferred to stay in the background supporting others. She always made sure that details were attended to and that everyone's needs were met. She was interested in the activities of others, subordinating her concerns and priorities to theirs. She was an ideal first lady for Geneva College. It was a personal privilege for our family to have known Norma White. We thank God for her life and the privilege of being part of it. She will be missed. We pray that the Holy Spirit will comfort Jack and Norma's family."
-Robert T Clarke, '67
"Dear Dr. White,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss of you dear wife, Norma. My family and I send our sympathy and prayers to you and your family."
-Karen Macioge Coggins
"Dear Jack,
It has been years since our paths have crossed, but I still think of you frequently as I interact with RP people here in Orlando. I remember your eagerness for the Reformed faith and your interaction with the OPC. I did not know Norma, but her picture looks like the stalwart Covenanters that I have met and enjoyed. I will pray for you today that the Lord will comfort you as only He can.
In the bonds of Christ,"
-Larry G. Mininger
"I knew Norma through Geneva Women. She was always kind and gracious. During the time she was "First Lady" she invited th ladies of Geneva Women to her home for our Christmas meeting. Cookies and punch were a great part of the day. The last several years Norma was co-vice President and served the group loyally. She will be greatly missed by all. What a wonderful kind, gracious lady! You and your family are in my thought and prayers on your great loss."
-Janet Wherry Wise '64 President of Geneva Women
"My memories of Norma go back to childhood school days and birthday sleepovers with Stephanie. What a joy it was to move to Darlington a few years ago just a stone's throw from your home and enjoy my own daughter visiting Jennifer for play dates in the same house. Our little town is not the same these days and the Agnew family greatly misses Norma's easy smile and friendly hospitality. But we rejoice in the life that she lived and the hope that we will see that smile again."
-Alison (Tweed) Agnew
"Dear Jack — The Genevans, under Hal Grieg, used to end their concerts with a beautiful setting of "Nunc Dimitis," Simeon's Song, which I'm sure Norma echoed. "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: for mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel" (Luke 2:29-32). May God comfort your family. Here is the Genevans' arrangement: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmlgxxCjBgY&feature=related"
-Linda Porter Foh '72
"Norma and I, from ages 8-15, enjoyed many wonderful times with sleep overs, roller rink evenings, summer camps and DVBS. She was a wonderful Christian friend whom I admired. At Geneva and more recently at Laurelville Camps we enjoyed 'catching up on our lives'. She met everyone with her beautiful gracious smile and reflected Christ in her life. Praying for you, Jack, as you miss her dearly."
-Jean (Mitchel) McFarland
"Jack, Pat and I are deeply sorry for your family and your loss. Norma was so supportive of your life's work. It was always so clear to us of the strong and lasting love you had for each other. God Bless your family and you."
-Pat and John Tino ('58)
"Dear Jack,
You have lost your loving companion, and Geneva has lost a Great First Lady.
She walked faithfully with her Lord, and you enjoyed a long walk together. In your lonely days, may you experience God's peace that passes all understanding.
Love in Christ,"
-Lee and Anita Troup
"Mrs. White's gracious provision of fresh blueberry muffins to a group of vagabonds looking for a free breakfast on the morning of graduation in 1993 was typical of her generosity. Giving thanks for a life well lived and grieving with those who've lost their beloved. Come quickly Lord Jesus."
-Tim Krispin
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
-George and Sue Haddad
"We came to work at Geneva in late December, 1993. Since our house wasn't ready for closing until early January, we spent Christmas in an empty Geneva Arms apartment with two small kids and one on the way. It was a bit odd. But who showed up unexpectedly to bring us a picnic basket full of Christmas dinner? Just Geneva's First Lady, Norma White. We have never forgotten her kindness. Norma was the ultimate classy lady, showing grace and the love of Christ to all. We mourn with Jack on her loss."
-Brad & J.J. Jacob
"My Dear Brother Jack, What a blessing and privilege it was for me to speak with you via phone a couple of days ago about the death of your dear wife Norma. Since the death of my dear Judy a little over a year ago. I can certainly empathize, as well as sympathize, with you in what you are experiencing now. Be assured of my love and prayers for you in the times that lie ahead. I have found that the wonderful support of family, friends, and the Body of Christ, world-wide has been immeasurable and deeply appreciated. You will experience the similar support, Jack. I will never forget how you and Norma embraced me as a part of your family during those week-ends I spent with you during my seminary days while I was "interning" at the College Hill R.P. Church you were pastoring. Your friendship and love for me were cherished, and I will not forget our relationship in Christ. May the God of all comfort continue to pour out His sustaining comfort on you. In love and covenant bonds,"
-James M Wright
"What a blessing to have known Norma! She was always thinking of others and quietly reaching out to them with her faith. Our love and sympathy to you Jack, and to the rest of the family. Norma will be missed but is now enjoying fellowship with the saints in Heaven."
-Mary and Karl Meeker
"Dear Jack, Cheryl's and my thoughts and prayers are with you. You and Normal have been a wonderful team in Christ's service. Thank you."
-Bob Hemphill
"I remember going back to my dorm room one evening, and Mrs. White had dropped off cookies for us with a kind note. So thoughtful!"
-Dave Bretch
Every time I saw Norma White she was gracious, kind, and concerned about others. She shined the light of God′s love to those around her! While she′s being welcomed in to heaven by her savior Jesus, she will be missed greatly here on Earth. I will continue to pray for Jack and the rest of the White family.
-Cheryl Johnston
"So sorry to hear of Norma's passing. Norma was two years ahead of me at Geneva but I remember her as a friendly and loving person. She was so good to be with and showed a real Christian attitude toward others. My sympathy goes out to Jack and the family."
-Elizabeth J. (Davison) Holscher class of '61
"Words are not adequate to express the impact that Norma and Jack have had
on our lives. Norma was one of God's Choicest Servants and a finer example of
Christian love and kindness never lived. To say Norma was a woman after God's own
heart is an understatement which anyone who knew her would immediately testify. I'll
never forget my first meeting with Jack and Norma, and was struck instantly by their
sincere humility and warmth-I felt like we had been friends for years. Norma is
wearing a crown with more stars than can be counted numbering the untold lives which
have been touched and changed, all for Jesus Christ. We will miss her, Jack, more
than we can tell you - May God's Grace be All Sufficient for you! We love you."
-Harold and Linda Hazen
"Dear Jack,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you very much and are so grateful to be
part of the Geneva family. "
-Bruce and Carol Mawhinney
"Remembering Norma brings to mind that beautifully gracious woman of God, who warmly welcomed all into her life, befriending, serving, and enjoying each individual's presence, as if they had been close friends forever. Surely the Lord has blessed Geneva with this wonderful family, and I am thankful that I have known Norma... May the peace that passes all understanding abide with you, Jack, and your family."
-June Anne Garber
"My clearest memory of Norma White was when she and Dr. White hosted a group of honors students at their home. At the time, I was learning about servant leadership in my classes, and this dinner gave me an opportunity to see it in action as these very remarkable people served a group of college sophomores. When I think of servant leadership, Christ comes to mind first, followed by Dr. and Mrs. White."
-Stephanie (Vesolich) Wilsey
"Jack and family,What joy in heaven to receive Norma. She has fought the good fight and has won her reward with Jesus. What good memories of our times as classmates at Geneva and as the years followed our class of '59 girls remained friends all these years. We will miss Norma. She was the first of us to reach the 75th year and the first of us to reach Heaven!"
-Ginny Wilson List
"Dear Jack, Praying that you are resting in the sovereign grace of our Lord. You are being prayed for."
-Joyce Bulford
"Dear Jack,
We met only briefly a few times many years ago. I did not know your wife, but my wife Alice passed into glory only two weeks ago, so I know both your great sorrow and your rejoicing in knowing that she is whole and happy and that you will be rejoined with her in eternity. You have my sincere sympathy."
-Dick Bowes
"Norma, along with her gracious, humble, giving spirit will be greatly missed. As a family of believers, we mourn with you Jack, Natalie, Stephanie and your families while rejoicing that Norma has received the blessing of eternal life with her Savior.
1 Peter 1:3-9
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith the salvation of your souls."
-Shawn (Clarke) Brower and family
"Dr. White retired shortly after I began school, so I only had to chance to spend time with Norma on a few occasions. Even during that short window of time, though, Norma always seemed like a lovely, gracious, and hospitable woman. She was quiet but always warm when I had to chance to talk with her. I pray that the Lord will comfort you, Dr. White, and your family and also give you joy that Norma is free from suffering and whole in the presence of our Savior."
-Heather (Pinkerton) Blocki ('07)
"Norma and I were Geneva classmates, class of 1959. She was, even as a college girl, a Christian lady with a clear testimony for her Lord. She was a fine example for many of us. I know she was also a gentle, godly "First Lady" for Geneva during Jack's presidency. I'm sorry to learn of her passing, but glad for her, that the battle she fought so bravely is over, and she's rejoicing in Heaven. My sympathy and prayers are with Jack, and their family. She was much loved by many, and we will all miss her."
-Delyte "Dee" Morris
"Heartfelt condolences to Jack."
-Rose-Marie Sommer (Seidler)
"Norma and I grew up in the same area. She always had a friendly spirit. My God comfort you Jack as you know she is blessed today to be with her Lord."
-Robert Morrow
"My sympathies to the White family. I never had the joy of meeting Mrs. White in person, but I know Dr. White is a reflection of her goodness. Even today, as I walk the Geneva College campus, I see the Spirit of Love that filled Mrs. White presently working. Once when I was a student, the chapel presentation equipment failed, so Dr. White stepped up without hesitation and gave a practical Christian sermon 'without preparation' to fill the time. I was impressed that God's Spirit was always working through him, so he was prepared, even 'out of season.' We will miss Mrs. White, but as Christians, we have a better hope: 'But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.' 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18"
-Patrick Powell
"Elaine and I are heartbroken by the sad news. We loved Norma from the moment we first met. She achieved a unique position of respect and adoration from all who knew her. We pray that Dr. White will count us among those who share his grief and whose hearts are heavy for him in this dark hour."
-Paul Haynie
"It was with deep sadness that I learned of Norma's homegoing. My love and sympathy to you, Jack, and your family. Norma and I were childhood friends, growing up in the Covenanter Church in Clarinda, Iowa. Four years as college roommates in Geneva followed, then our lives went in different directions. We had a wonderful reunion at our 50th high school reunion in Clarinda a few years ago. Thanks to God for Norma, a special Christian friend."
-Phyllis Perry Landon
"Norma....a truly gentle spirit with endless love for Jack, their daughters, and their grandchildren. Her model of always putting others first........has touched many lives."
-Paul and Joy Jewell
"My husband, David, and my mother, Mrs. Mary McNally, join me in sending heartfelt sympathy to Dr. White and the family. May you have much peace over the coming weeks."
-Martha McNally Rowe
"From baby-sitting me before I could remember, to her quiet steadiness in the midst of significant suffering, she was and is a example to us all."
-Jon Adams, nephew
Norma was always so kind to me. In college, when I took way too much of Jack's time as I wrestled with faith, she was so gracious. I respected her enormously and learned so much from her about being a help to my pastor husband. Our prayers are with you Jack.
-Boni Piper
"I had great privilege of officiating for the marriage of Jack and Norma in Clarinda, Iowa 50 plus years ago. During the years that followed I enjoyed seeing Norma and Jack on various occasions, including NAE Conventions. Norma was always most gracious and the consummate hostess while serving as "The First Lady" at Geneva College. Ruth and I express our love and sympathy to Jack and the family as they grieve the temporary loss of Norma."
-Jim Pennington
"My father was the pastor at the Clarinda Reformed Presbyterian church when Norma was born. I was quite taken with "baby Norma", and never had any reason to change my mind. Mother was a member at College Hill church while Norma and Jack pastored there. They were a wonderful team, going out of their way to serve. I am so sorry for your loss, Jack."
-Ellen Brierly
"Mrs. White was such a dear lady. One of my favorite Geneva memories is when she had several of us girls from the Genevans come up to the Patterson house when they lived there on campus to bake Christmas cookies with her. The Whites were always gracious in inviting students to spend time with them in their home. She is now pain free and in the loving arms of her heavenly father. She will be truly missed by all of those who had the pleasure of knowing her and seeing the model of Christianity through her. My prayers are with Dr. White and his family."
-Carrie Wheeler- 1995 Geneva Grad
"Mrs. White was a lovely, gentle woman. I knew her best as my friend's mom. I remember many sleepovers and play dates at their house in Darlington. When I was learning to sing the alto part on the Psalms, I would try to sit close to her so I could hear her voice and copy her. She will be missed. My love and prayers for Dr. White, Natalie, Stephanie, and the grandchildren."
-Anne (Copeland) Shaw
"'Miss Woods' was my kindergarten teacher at Wilkinsburg Christian School in 1959. I became reacquainted with her as 'Mrs. Jack White' at Geneva. She'll be singing God's praises in heaven, like we sang His praises in her 'percussion band' in Kindergarten! My sympathy to Dr. White."
-Gay Elmendorf O'Hara '76
"Norma was the sweet wife and complement to a wonderful professor, leader, and friend. Jack, we know that much of who you are is because of Norma! May God sustain you and your family over the coming days. May you experience His promised measure of grace, mercy, and peace that passes understanding."
-Walt Mueller
"I got to know Mrs. Norma White rather well over the last 5 to 10 years via my membership on the Geneva Alumni Council. She attended every Geneva College function and always had a warm smile, kind word and gracious demeanor for everyone. She always thanked me for my service to the college after discussions about our memories. She was the epitome of what Geneva is about and was a perfect partner for Dr. Jack White who I've admired for a long time. She is with her Heavenly Father now and will be missed tremendously by us all. My deepest sympathy and wish for comfort go out to her entire family."
-Ted Kay '71, Geneva Alumni Council
"I can't remember when I did not know Norma! It is not easy to be the wife of an "important" man, and she did it well. Blessings to you Jack."
-Margaret Robb Andrews
"Norma was a kind and thoughtful friend who served God in a most gentle way. She was Jack's best friend and a loving mother and grandmother. I got to know Norma best when my husband, Mark worked as Jack's assistant Dean of Religious Services. I shall always remember her gracious support of our family and her wonderful strawberry pies! Her passing is our deep loss and Heaven's gain."
-Beth Dalbey
"Very sorry to hear about her passing. She and her family are in my prayers."
-Marc Walther. 69'
"I have known and admired Norma for as long as I have known Jack. I came to know her best as the consummate hostess when she and Jack hosted me in Richardson House for many Trustees meetings. Always gracious and welcoming, she expressed genuine personal interest in me and my family for our own sake, independent from my role with the College. I observed her unequivocal support for Jack during his presidency, and now from personal experience can affirm the blessing a supportive spouse is to one in the presidential role. We celebrate Norma′s life and work, mourn her passing, pray God′s comfort for Jack, and hope in the resurrection."
-Ken Smith
"A few people have touched our family as "Mom" Norma White did. She adopted our family--literally--as her own. She neither missed a birthday nor a Christmas with those gifts. And they were personally delivered. What a 'saint!' Later, Mom."
-Richard, Victoria, & Kids (Morrises)
"I may have known Norma longer than anyone on this long list, for I remember when she was born in Clarinda, and seeing her in a basket at church. We have only met a few times in later life, but her reputation has been superb. My deepest sympathies to Jack."
-Don Robb
"I graduated the year after Norma, Jack. She and I were both involved with WAA & Doris Nevin was our mentor. Norma was very loving and most generous to us as under-classmen. She was a joyful Christian witness to the women. May God bring comfort to the family in this loss."
- Margaret Metzger Emelson
"Norma and I became good friends when we were team members on a summer mission team to Los Angeles. Later, she was in my wedding. What blessings she is experiencing now! My sympathy to Jack."
-Georgia McFarland
"Norma was a most gracious lady and had a lively winsome faith. She was also a delight to be with. Her gentle wit was a complement to her. Her selfless support of Jack in their joint ministry was a model and a blessing to see. Kathe and I admired her and will miss her. As we pray for Jack and the family, we rejoice in Norma's triumph."
-Tim Russell '79, former College Chaplain
"What an incredible woman that touched the life of everyone that crossed her path. I was blessed to be one of those that crossed her path and experienced the love of Jesus Christ that shown through every action of her life."
-Jeff Bobin
"It has been years since I graduated from Geneva. However, I have beautiful and lasting memories of Norma. She was kind, gentle, and had a quiet peace about her that clearly reflected her relationship with the Lord. My sympathy to both Jack and the rest of the family."
-Joy Dennis
"A wife of noble character who can find for her value is far beyond rubies. My love and sympathy at your loss of such a jewel!!!!!"
-Janet Keys Barker
"Norma′s application of Christian stewardship and service will be greatly missed. Although shy by nature, Norma extended beyond her comfort zone to welcome Geneva Women into her home for fun and fellowship on a regular basis. This small gesture was very much appreciated by the group…and noted to me on several occasions by group members. I am sorry that Norma′s smile will no longer brighten this world, but am grateful that she is now pain free in the presence of our glorious God! Condolences to Jack and family."
-Diana Patterson
“Norma was always smiling no matter how she felt and had the disposition of an angel. She will be so missed!”
-Betty Iben
"Humble in spirit, selfless in service, abounding in love. Those are but a few ways to describe Norma. Her college, her church and her community have all been touched by her life. Our sympathies to Jack and his family; yet we rejoice that death has been overcome through our Lord."
-Sam Siple
"Norma was a gracious hostess, serving Geneva's family with a true servant's heart."
-Susan Layton
"The passing of Norma is a loss for all who knew her. She was such a delight to be around. We have truly lost a great friend. Our prayers go out to Jack and the family. Please know that others share your pain."
-Barb Frum
"Mrs White was my kindergarten teacher at the Wilkinsburg school. I just remember that I really liked her. Later I attended Geneva College and got to see her a few times over the 4 years that I attended the school. She was a very nice person and will be missed. My condolences to Jack."
-Janet Baker
"I knew her vaguely. Dr White and I grad from Geneva same year. We attended many sports events together. My sympathy to Jack."
-James Barr