Dates
Waylon Arlen White, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on October 25, 2024, at Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo, TX, at the age of 89. He was born on November 29, 1934, in Big Spring, TX, to William Jewel White and Elouise Pittman White. Arlen spent his early years in Forsan, TX, where he graduated from Forsan High School. He went on to attend Howard College and Howard Payne University, where he not only earned his degree but also played basketball. Arlen later completed a master’s degree at Sul Ross State University.
While at Howard Payne, Arlen met Dolores Mabry, the love of his life. They shared 66 years of marriage, building a life rooted in faith, service, and love. Arlen is survived by his wife, Dolores, and their children: Kurt White (Kim), Terrye Smith (Rick), and Robert White (Shelley). His legacy of love continues through his grandchildren: Tres White (Nikki), Tyler White (Joni), Mallorye Sommerfield (Matthew), Stormy Smith (Kathryn), Whitney Lynch (Patric), Courtney White, Jaret White (Jaime), and Addison White and his great-grandchildren: Acie Jo, Axel, Landry, Emma, Lawson, and two more great grandaughters on the way.
Each of these blessings is a testament to his profound impact on family and faith.
Arlen’s professional life reflected his commitment to serving others. His dedication to his country led him to serve as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Marine Corps. His career as a teacher, coach, and counselor spanned from 1966 to 1994. He coached in Knott, Sands, and Crane. He accumulated 525 basketball wins and guided two teams to the state tournament. Additionally, Arlen served as Crane County Judge for six years and was recognized as Crane’s Man of the Year in 1987. At age 78, he returned to coaching basketball at Cornerstone Christian School in San Angelo, bringing the same passion and dedication that marked his life’s work. He coached his last game from a hospital bed via Facetime (and they won!).
He faithfully gave his time to numerous service organizations. In 2009, Arlen established the West Central Texas Specialty Feeding Team (a division of Texas Baptist Men) and served as the “Blue Cap”. The team ministered to many survivors of national disasters including every major hurricane until 2016, when his health began to decline. His influence extended through numerous community organizations, including the Howard Payne Alumni Association, Texas
High School Coaches Association, Crane Noon Lions Club, and the Baptist Retirement Community Auxiliary. Arlen also served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher at First Baptist Church in Crane, TX, and later at First Baptist Church in San Angelo, TX, where he remained an active servant and leader.
Arlen’s life was defined by a deep love for God, family, and country. He embodied kindness, humility, and joy, choosing happiness and showing compassion to everyone he met. His sense of humor and infectious laughter, often directed at himself, uplifted those around him. He gave selflessly, never met a stranger, and was known for his unmatched servant’s heart and generosity.
In his spare time, Arlen enjoyed watching sports (especially Duke basketball), following his family’s activities, fishing, cooking, reading, and hunting for arrowheads.
Arlen is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, George Alvin White.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 3-5:00 PM at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo, TX. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church in San Angelo, TX, followed by a graveside service with military honors at Trinity Memorial Cemetery in Big Spring, TX.
Arlen’s legacy of faith, generosity, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by his family, friends, and community.
The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Kenneth Perret, Dr. Cornelius Chinn, and the incredible team of respiratory therapists, physical therapists, and nurses who gave our dad wonderful care and support.