Tributes

WILLIE PERCY WHITE, SR. (PERCY/BUD) WAS BORN ON APRIL 15, 1930, TO GEORGE WILLIE WHITE AND CORA LEE (PERRY) WHITE. HE GREW UP IN CHOWAN COUNTY AND ATTENDED GREENHALL, WILDCAT, CENTER HILL, AND D.F. WALKER HIGH SCHOOL, WHERE HE DEVELOPED LIFELONG VALUES ROOTED IN FAMILY, FAITH, AND COMMUNITY. Percy was one of twelve children born to George and Cora: Catherine (Nell), George (P.G.), Mildred (Bailey), Louis (Short), Willie (Bud), Cora (Sis), Annie (Mae), Vanilla (Nella), Doris (Dee), Carlton (Jaybay), Lawrence (Sack), and James (Jill). Together, they formed a close-knit family whose bond created a legacy of unity, resilience, and deep pride that continues through every generation. He joined Warren Grove Missionary Baptist Church at an early age and remained a faithful and dedicated member throughout his life. Percy attended Sunday School and worship services whenever he could, serving with humility and devotion. He was a longtime Deacon, ultimately becoming Chairman of the ministry. His service extended across multiple church ministries, including the Senior Choir, Male Chorus, and the Ladies & Men Ministry. He also served as the bus driver for the church for many years, offering dependable transportation and quiet kindness to all who rode with him. Percy was a dedicated and hardworking man whose career reflected his steady character and commitment to providing for his family. He worked for many years as a truck driver for W.D. Holmes Wholesale Grocery Co., a prominent regional distributor based in Edenton, NC. He later continued his service and later retired from George C. Moore, a respected textile manufacturer specializing in elastic fabrics. Percy also contributed to the wider community through his involvement in the Chowan Male Chorus and Past Worshipful Master of John R. Page Lodge #13, where his steady presence and kind spirit were deeply valued. In 1950, Willie married Catherine Johnson White, and together they built a loving family with four children: Gloria, Willie P. Jr. (Pee), Kathryn (Sue), and Donelton (Elton). He was blessed with four grandchildren: Cayce, Deon, Candace, and Quiyana and four great‑grandchildren: Ethan, Evan, Kerry and Kobe. Percy was a devoted Christian believer whose life reflected exemplary Christ‑like character. Humble, gentle, and steadfast, he was loved by everyone who knew him. To his family, he was not only a loving father, he was proudly celebrated as the “BEST BROTHER in the WHOLE WIDE WORLD.” Percy leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Gloria White Strong, (Otis) of College Park, GA; Kathryn White Broadus (Steven) of Locust Grove, VA; and Donelton (Bridget) of Elizabeth City, NC; grandchildren, Cayce, Deon, Candace, and Quiyana; great-grandsons, Ethan, Evan, Kerry and Kobe; two sisters, Doris Overton, and Carlton Griffin (Anthony); 2 brothers, Lawrence White (Shonor); James R. White (Mary); a special friend, Mattie Carter and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. “Percy walked gently through this world, leaving every place and every person better than he found them. His kindness was steady, his faith unwavering, and his love for family unshakeable. Though his earthly journey has ended, the warmth of his spirit continues to shine in every life he touched.”

Tributes

Deacon Willie Percy White Sr

April 15, 1930 - July 6, 2026