William A. White (1930-2018): Tireless advocate of Union’s Charlotte campus

CHARLOTTE, NC (January 12, 2018) – William “Bill” White, a Life Trustee of Union Presbyterian Seminary and tireless advocate of its Charlotte campus, died January 11, 2018.

White was deeply committed to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the theological education offered through the seminary. He was a galvanizing force in securing support for Union Presbyterian Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. Due in large part to his efforts, more than 150 students have completed the seminary’s graduate programs since the Charlotte campus opened in 2002.

“Those who had the privilege of working alongside Bill over the years know how much fun that was and what joy he brought to the gift and task of the Christian life,” said Thomas Currie, founding dean of the Charlotte campus. “That there is a thriving presence of Union Presbyterian Seminary in Charlotte is due largely to Bill White, whose vision and dedication inspired others to join in that vital effort to train pastors and teachers for the church.”

White graduated from Davidson College in 1952 with a degree in business, with Phi Beta Kappa and Omicron Delta Kappa distinctions. In 1953, he received his M.B.A. from University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

A native of Charlotte, White was president and chair of Charter Properties, Inc. for 28 years before his retirement in 1998. An elder and longtime senior high Sunday school teacher at Myers Park Presbyterian Church, he was involved in a wide variety of community activities. In 2006, he received the Humanitarian Award from the National Conference for Community and Justice in Charlotte.

“Every student who has matriculated and will matriculate through Union Presbyterian Seminary at Charlotte will be vitally connected to him,” said seminary President Brian K. Blount. “Bill did not limit his attention to Charlotte. He was a strong advocate and visionary for both Richmond and Charlotte. One of only two lifetime members of the board of trustees of Union, he will be deeply missed, and most fondly and faithfully remembered.”

White is survived by his wife of 56 years, Elizabeth “Betsy” Smith White; three daughters Elizabeth, Margaret, and Katherine; and six grandchildren.

A worship service in celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, January 19, at Myers Park Presbyterian Church, 2501 Oxford Place, Charlotte NC. A reception will follow in Oxford Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Charlotte Housing Authority Scholarship Fund, 220 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202; Union Presbyterian Seminary, 5141 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28210; or Myers Park Presbyterian Church.