Joseph Murl White

Joseph Murl White passed away on July 28, 2026, at the age of 83. He was born on May 14, 1943, in West Virginia, the eldest son of Helen Gleaves Hart and Murl Shadrech White.

Joseph spent his childhood in both West Virginia and California and remained proud of his connection to both places throughout his life. He was preceded in death by both of his parents, his brother, William “Billy” Jacobs, his sister, Diana Parker and two of his sons, Christopher White and Justin White. He is survived by his wife, Loretta; twelve additional children; 19 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Joseph served for seven years in the United States Navy, where his training and assignments encouraged him to develop his abilities and pursue new challenges. After leaving the Navy, he worked with NASA during the early Apollo program. He later built a career as a research and development engineer in the aerospace industry, where he was known for his creativity, technical skill, and willingness to mentor others.

In 1981, Joseph married Loretta, his wife of 45 years. Together, they created a large and loving family that included children from previous marriages as well as children they adopted. Joseph had a particular concern for children and adults with disabilities and devoted much of his life to supporting and encouraging them. Joseph was an avid reader, especially of history and works that strengthened his faith in Jesus Christ. Music was also an important part of his life and accompanied many of his daily activities. He enjoyed working with his hands, building and repairing things, and leaving places better than he found them.

For many years, Joseph supported the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland and Blind Industries and Services of Maryland. Much of his service was performed quietly and behind the scenes. He also enjoyed bringing happiness to others through his appearances as Santa Claus, especially for children and individuals with disabilities.

Joseph was rarely seen without his cowboy hat and boots. He almost always had a history book nearby, and his grandchildren knew they could often find a roll of Life Savers in his pocket.

Joseph will be remembered for his faith, kindness, curiosity, service to others, and devotion to his family.

A graveside service honoring Joseph’s life will be held on August 3, 2026 at 2 pm at Alamance Memorial Park in Burlington, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Joseph’s name to the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland at http://nfbmd.org/donate