POSTVILLE, Iowa—John White Jr., an influential leader in the GARBC, died Monday, July 7, 2014. He was 81.
Dr. White pastored churches in Robins, Iowa, and Grand Rapids, Mich., then served as a missionary consultant with the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism in many countries around the world. He also founded Horizon International Schools, a distance learning university for theological training in foreign countries, and was chairman of the GARBC Council of Eighteen, on which he served from 1977 to 1991.
He was a graduate of Baptist Bible College and Seminary, Luther College, and Dallas Theological Seminary.
“John White was a leader of leaders,” says John Greening, GARBC national representative. “His love for the church, his love for the Word, his exceptional leadership ability all combined to make him an effective pastor and influencer of others. He was repeatedly recognized by his peers as one who had the capacity to navigate the challenging and always changing currents of circumstances. His level head, keen insight, business acumen, networking awareness, and sense of humor made him a must-hear type voice when he shared his thoughts.”
John is survived by his wife, Sharon, whom he married on Aug. 7, 1959; his children, Deborah Sisson and J. Philip White; and five grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 12, at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Waukon, Iowa. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery, Waukon. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 11, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Waukon.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Missions Trip Fund at First Baptist Church, Waukon, Iowa.
