James Roger White, Jr.

life story

James Roger White, Jr.

Blessed be the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. -James 12:1

About Jim

James Roger White, Jr., 57, of Phoenix, AZ went to be with his Heavenly Father and received his crown on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Jim was born on October 3, 1966 in Detroit, MI and spent his youth in Ypsilanti, MI and Lewisville, TX. Jim was the son of Roger and Marie Elswick White of Tazewell, VA and according to his family members, the most rambunctious of the bunch.

Jim spent his entire life working as a master carpenter, whether working for others or in his own business. Across many states, his legacy will continue with all that he used his God given talent to build.

In 2011, Jim married his wife, Dena Cornwell White in Tazewell, VA. A few years later, they moved to Surprise, AZ and later to Phoenix, to spend more time with their son, Aaron Peña. Jim enjoyed his life in Arizona where he was a member of Sun Valley Fliers, a model airplane club and enjoyed all activities in the great outdoors. He was very proud to be a member of North Valley Baptist Church and became close friends with Pastor Brent Loveless in Phoenix. He never met a stranger. Jim was always lending a helping hand to anyone that needed his help and would literally give the shirt off his back to anyone that asked for his help. His “big” heart matched his 6 ft. 5 in. stature.

Those left to cherish his memory are his mother, Marie Elswick White of Tazewell, VA; his loving wife, Dena Cornwell White and stepson, Aaron Peña of Phoenix, AZ; his sister, Rebekah Ritter and Randy Jackson of Bluefield, VA. Jim was very fond and so proud of his two nieces, Jill Ritter Parker (Skyler) of Brandon, MS and Joni Ritter Strange (Michael) of Cameron, NC. Great nieces and nephews: Brody, Bowen and Brynnlee Joy Parker and Aella Strange. Jim only had one “unk” that he loved and looked up to, Uncle Kenneth White and his Aunt Karen of Sarasota, FL. He is also survived by his mother in law Peggy Cornwell and sister in law, Donna Cornwell of Bluefield, VA. A very special friend, Gary Rheault and his wife Sherri Congrove and a multitude of cousins.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, James Roger White and grandparents who he dearly loved, Trigg and Earlene Hess White and Stewart “Pood” and Nell Peery Elswick.

Whether you knew him as “Jim”, “Jimmy”, or “ Slim”, a master carpenter or devoted friend, you knew his devotion to his Lord and Savior and love for his family and friends.

Following Jim’s wishes, his body has been donated to Bright Bioservices. There will be no visitation or funeral service at this time.