Suffield Obituary: Phillip White, 88

Phillip Densmore White, 88, for over 65 years the devoted and beloved husband of Rita Barnett White, loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather, died September 11, 2015 at his home, after a long illness.

Born in Adamant, VT, February 28, 1927, son of the late Gordon and Gertrude Newton White, his childhood was spent in Waterbury and Duxbury, VT, moving to “the farm” on Nob Hill in Marshfield when he was 13. It was in Marshfield that he met and married the love of his life, Rita Barnett. They moved to West Suffield in 1953 where he worked for a large shade tobacco grower for nearly 20 years, and later for Winding Brook Turf for several years. Phil was an avid hunter and fisherman from an early age. An excellent tracker, he especially loved deer hunting in his beloved Vermont. He enjoyed a game of horseshoes, playing billiards, and whistling or singing to his favorite Classic Country songs. He adored children, caring for his lawn, his vegetable and flower gardens, and a good card game.

Besides his wife Rita, Phil is survived by three sons, Lynn Anthony (Ann) White, of North Haven, Phillip Dean (Cynthia) White and Clint Gordon White, both of West Suffield; four grandchildren, Daniels (Jenna) White, of Needham, MA, Dean (Kristen) White, of North Haven, Naomi (Robert) Hull, of McDonough, GA, and Michelle White, of Henry County, GA; seven great grandchildren, Connor, Emmett, Myles, Hannah, Jocelyn, Isaiah, and Jordan; a sister, Shirley (Robert) Banning, of Enfield, as well as many nieces and nephews. Also David Woodruff, of San Diego, CA, Clint’s childhood friend and like a fourth son, David has always been a welcome part of Phil’s family. He was preceded in death by six siblings, Forest, Gordon, Jr., Norma, Beverly, Rudolph, and Douglas.

Funeral services and burial were private.

Gifts in his memory can be made to Masonicare Partners, 111 Founders Plaza, East Hartford, CT 06108.

Phil’s family, especially Rita and Clint, his primary care givers, convey their deep appreciation to Kathy, RN, Marie, LPN, CNAs, Annie and Liz, as well as the other professionals from Masonicare for their dedicated and compassionate care.

Condolences can be expressed online at www.keenanfuneralhome.com.