Richard “Dick” Leroy White, 90, of Columbus, died May 24, 2022 at his home surrounded by his family.
Born May 27, 1931, in Newton County, Mo., Dick was the son of John and Leonel (Cunningham) White. During his life, Richard served his country for over 30 years in the United States Navy. He was a veteran of the Korean War. Continuing his life of service, Dick also worked as a Highway Patrolman for over 30 years and rode with the motorcycle unit when stationed at Junction City. He also enjoyed training new recruits as they came on the highway patrol.
Richard was active in the Masonic Lodge Mirza Shrine and Scottish Rite, VFW, American Legion, NRA, Kansas Peace Officers Association and Lion’s Club. He enjoyed farming, cattle, welding and his family. He was a strong man who spoke his mind however he reached out and helped many.
Dick and Alice M. Wilson were united in marriage October 1, 1952 in Huntsville, Arkansas. She survives of the home. Dick graduated from Cherokee County High School with the class of 1949. He attended Pittsburg State University and later Missouri Southern, taking criminal justice courses.
In addition to his wife Alice, Richard is survived by three daughters, Alyce Fortnoff of Canton, Ohio, Lora Brehe (husband Carl) of Holt Summit, Missouri, and Robin Adams (husband Dan) of Enid, Oklahoma; a sister Myrtle Stone of Long Beach, California, 10 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother Minnie White and brothers John White and Ted White.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, June 4, at 2 p.m. at Derfelt Funeral Home. Sheriff David Groves will officiate.
Cremation arrangements are being handled through Derfelt Funeral Home of Columbus