Kathryn White of Melbourne, Florida passed away peacefully on March 16, 2023, surrounded by her family. Kathryn won the hearts of all those who knew her, including caregivers and friends. She demonstrated her love for others, with gentleness and compassion. She was brave in her battle against Lewy body dementia.
Kathryn was born in Jacksonville, Florida where she spent much of her life before moving to Melbourne. She raised two children, Donald and Michele, for whom she was always a part of their activities and sports. Kathryn was a talented homemaker who knew how to decorate, cook, bake, and sew. She was a member of the Arlington Junior Women's Club and volunteered in many of their service projects. A graduate of Robert E. Lee High School, she attended the University of Florida and later graduated from the University of North Florida. Kathryn became a mental health professional, helping countless families during her career. St. Vincent's Hospital in the Riverside area of Jacksonville was a special place to her, where she evaluated emergency room patients and became part of a well-respected group of mental health professionals known throughout Jacksonville. Her talent for listening to and guiding families through difficult times was ever present when she worked for several doctors in private practice. In retirement, she learned to quilt and challenged herself with difficult patterns and large projects. Kathryn looked forward to quilting with friends and going to the movies. She immersed herself as Nana to two amazing granddaughters, Taylor and Sam. All who knew her realized that she would help wherever and whenever there was a need, especially at her church. She volunteered her time and talent at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, in Melbourne, Florida, where she enjoyed being with her friends and a member of a bible study group. Her delicious desserts were always popular with fellow parishioners and guests. She especially loved working at the Holy Trinity Thrift Store in its former location in downtown Melbourne. Kathryn will be remembered mostly for her smile, her open arms, and her unconditional love.
Survivors include son Donald G. White III, son-in-law Randy Bianchi of Wellington; daughter A. Michele White Frey, and son-in-law Neil Frey of Palm Bay, FL. She is also survived by her two granddaughters Taylor McCarter and Sam McCarter. Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents, James Paul, and Lilyan Southwell; her sister Jane Maher.
A Celebration of the Funeral Mass for Kathryn will be held at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, in the Historic Chapel, on April 8, 2023, at 11 a.m. located at 50 W Strawbridge Avenue, Melbourne, FL 32901 (corner of Peachtree St and Strawbridge Ave). (321) 723-5272
In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to any of these deserving groups:
Holy Trinity Episcopal Church of Melbourne - holytrinitymelbourne.org
Lewy Body Dementia Fund - lbda.org/donate/
Vitas Hospice Brevard County vitas.com