Cleta Bennett White

She was born to the late Coy and Phoebe Harper Bennett on May 15, 1917 in West Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 76 years, Dr. Raymond C. White, N.C. State University Emeritus Professor of Chemistry on July 26, 2012; sisters, Grace B. Martin, Violet B. Nance and brother, Gerald C. Bennett Sr., all of Raleigh, and brothers, Harry J. Bennett and Thomas W. Bennett of Job, WV.

She is survived by her sister, Ruth B. Mullennex of Harmon, WV; sister-in-law, Dixie E. Bennett of Raleigh; nephews Nelson Nance (Louise) and daughters Kathryn and Amanda; Gerry Bennett (Melody) and daughter Kristin B. Strickland (Allan); Gregory E. Bennett; and niece, Susan Bennett, all of Raleigh; and niece Jo Ann Clayton of Myrtle Beach, SC. She leaves several other nieces, nephews and cousins from out-of-state.

She was an active member of Fairmont United Methodist Church for many years. She was also a member of NC State University Woman’s Club. She retired from the NC State Board of Health.

She never had children but touched many lives by putting their needs first before her own. She helped many family members receive a higher education in local colleges. She also contributed to various scholarships for many years. She valued her family and was loyal to her friends.

Her graciousness and unconditional spirit of love will be remembered and missed by all who knew her. She lived daily by the Serenity Prayer and encouraged its meaning. “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, and the Wisdom to know the difference;” and by Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

A service to celebrate her life will be held in the Auditorium of Springmoor Retirement Community at 3:00 pm on Sunday, June 14, 2015. A private burial will occur at Raleigh Memorial Park on Saturday, June 13, 2015.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Springmoor Endowment Fund, 1500 Sawmill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615 or to your favorite charity.