Robert S. White

Robert Strange White, a distinguished veteran and longtime resident of Hampton, VA, passed away on Monday, November 20, 2023, at the remarkable age of 100. Born in Brunswick County, North Carolina, on October 8, 1923, Robert was a man of strength, courage, and enduring spirit. Robert, affectionately known as "Bob," was married to the love of his life, Marie White, on December 14, 1942, for an incredible 72 years. Their enduring bond weathered the storms of life, bringing love and stability to their family. A North Carolina native, Robert, during the height of World War II, joined the U.S. Army in 1943. Serving with valor, he became a member of the 507th Parachute Infantry within the 17th Airborne Division. His journey through history included participating in the Battle of the Bulge and Operation Varsity. After the war, Robert settled in Hampton Roads in 1951, embarking on a career as a sheet metal mechanic at the Newport News Shipyard, where he dedicated more than 37 years of hard work and skill until his retirement in 1989. Among his many accolades, Robert earned the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and the Legion of Honor—the highest distinction awarded by France. His commitment to service and sacrifice for his country was an unforgettable part of his character. Beyond his military service, Robert lived a vibrant and active life. A testament to his enduring vitality, he competed in races throughout his lifetime. In 1989, at the age of 73, he achieved a remarkable feat by completing the Boston Marathon. Notably, he became the first 90-year-old to finish a 10K race in Virginia decades later, establishing himself as an outstanding runner. His achievements on the track led to his induction into the Virginia Peninsula Road Racing Hall of Fame in 2009, a well-deserved honor at the age of 86. At one time, he held five Virginia State road race records. Robert's wartime experiences were chronicled in Andrew Biggio's book, "The Rifle," with a dedicated chapter titled "The Running Man." His life story stands as an inspiration to all who knew him. In the later chapters of his life, Robert discovered profound companionship with Doris Moore, a bond that endured until his serene passing. Their shared love for each other was beautifully expressed in their favorite song, "Keeper of the Stars" by Tracy Byrd. The melody served as a touching soundtrack to the togetherness that they shared. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marie White; his parents Willie and Katie White of Leland, North Carolina; his brothers Floyd (Mutt) White and Ralph White of Leland, North Carolina; his sisters Alma White, Benton Leland, and Ruth Player of Fayetteville, North Carolina; as well as his sons Brian White and Charlie White; son-in-law Chip Glazer; and daughter-in-law Betty White. Robert is survived by his sister Winnifred Armstrong of Jacksonville, North Carolina; his sons Robert White and Al White; his daughter Connie Glazer; his daughter-in-law Deborah White; his 12 grandchildren Ronnie, Michael, Steven, Julie, Chris, Crystal, Shawn, Sarah, Scott, Caitlyn, Theresa, and Allen; and his 18 great-grandchildren Robbie, Ally, Chloe, Peyton, Casey, Kendra, Brett, Austin, Christina, Christiana, Madisyn, Mason, Michael Jr, Hollie, Koen, Karson, Vivienne, and Chip. The family will welcome friends on Saturday, November 25, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Fox Hill Road Baptist Church, 335 Fox Hill Rd, Hampton, Virginia, 23669, and a funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM. An interment with military honors will occur Friday, December 1, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Parklawn Memorial Park, 2551 North Armistead Ave, Hampton, Virginia 23666. “I’ve had a good run in life and it’s been a long one.” - Robert “Bob” Strange White