Richard Allen (Rick) White passed away Sunday, January 24, 2021 at his home in Marianna, Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife Lorraine, “the love of his life”. He will be interred with her in Barrancas National Cemetery, Pensacola, in a private ceremony.
He was born in Cumberland on November 25, 1956, the son of Leonard D. White and Betty Ann Lippold, both deceased.
He graduated from Allegany High School in 1974 and joined the Air Force. Showing technical talent, he was assigned to the Strategic Missile Command, Omaha, where he embarked on an engineering career. His expertise was focused on the installation and maintenance of the Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles, which are deployed in “silos” at AF bases in North Dakota and Montana. These Minuteman III missiles launch the Mark 12A reentry vehicles that provide a “third leg” of our nuclear deterrent.
Rick rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant at the time of discharge, then continued to serve on-site as a civilian consultant to the AF. He met Lorraine, they fell in love, married, and then transferred with his work to Eglin AF Base near Pensacola. Lorraine then formed a successful real estate office.
They enjoyed their life together; riding their motorcycles and exploring the Gulf of Mexico beach. This was shortened by her demise, but he continued riding his Harley, working on his genealogy and home projects with the companionship of his rescue dog: Hershey.
He is predeceased by Uncles Richard and Thomas White and survived by aunts Marjorie Sharon, Oakland and Patricia Brant, Valley Forge, along with eight cousins.
Jared “Tater” Whitehead with McAlpin Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Condolences may be submitted at www.mcalpinfuneralhome.com.
