James Curtis White

**James Curtis “JC” White****, 88, passed away peacefully on the morning of February 7, 2026. He was born on June 24, 1937, in Uvalda, Georgia, to Curtis James and Rozie Lee Kelly White. JC spent most of his childhood in Nocatee, Florida, where he developed a love for fishing, playing pool, riding in the Arcadia Rodeo, and playing fast-pitch softball. Those early years shaped his adventurous spirit and appreciation for competition. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1957 to 1961, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Stationed in Germany, JC often shared colorful stories of his time overseas—stories that reflected both his humor and his pride in serving. After his military service, JC became the Director of Recreation at G. Pierce Wood Memorial Hospital, where he met his former wife, Myra, the mother of his two daughters. He later settled in Lakeland, Florida, where he raised his family and built a long and successful career as a food salesman. Representing companies such as Lance, E.J. Keefe Co., Carr Brothers, and PFG, JC consistently ranked as a top salesman, earning numerous awards and accolades. More importantly, he earned the respect and friendship of his clients, many of whom remained close friends long after his retirement. JC was a devoted father and grandfather. To his grandchildren, he was simply “Papa Horse,” a title he wore with pride and joy. He rarely missed his daughters’ and grandchildren’s sporting events, football games, or dance recitals. He coached basketball at Lake Gibson High School during his daughter Kimberly’s playing years and was an avid college sports fan, especially cheering on the Florida Gators. Each year, he looked forward to attending the high school state basketball championships in person. He loved to travel and explore the world, visiting numerous countries including Germany, Austria, Peru and Mexico. One of his most memorable adventures was hiking Machu Picchu, where he was moved by the children in a local village who gratefully received clothing and school supplies. JC had a passion for life’s simple pleasures—southern cooking, traveling to Las Vegas with his best friend Bob to play blackjack, betting at the the dog track, buying and boarding horses, and caring for his beloved pets, horse Thunder and his dog Sabbath. He took pride in teaching his daughters how to ride horses, water ski, fish, dance the jitterbug, play blackjack and poker, and even how to shoot a basketball at a young age. He believed in living fully and passing those experiences on. He was known for having a saying for every situation, which made him truly one of a kind. People often shared that he made them feel truly special and that he was one of their favorite people. He was loved deeply and will be missed beyond measure. He was preceded in death by his five sisters: Mae, Ruby Lee, Nellie, Mary, and Josephine (Jo). He is survived by his daughter Kimberly and son-in-law Kenny Jones; his daughter Kelly Hare and son Steve McRae and wife Shelby; his grandchildren Kyle, Kevin (Jamie), Kody (Amber), Payton, Kurtis, Kourtney (Tyler), and Kassidy; and his great-grandchildren Alana, Taya, Jameson, Neil, Alyx, Gilbert, and Addison, along with several nieces and nephews. JC’s legacy lives on in the stories he told, the lessons he taught, and the love he had for his family. Dad was a passionate supporter of athletics, always cheering the loudest for any team his grandchildren played for or coached. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Santa Fe Catholic High School Girls Softball, 3110 US 92, Lakeland, Florida 33801 (in care of Girls Softball).

James Curtis White

June 24, 1937 - February 7, 2026