Larry Ray White

Larry Ray White, 83, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on February 22, 2026. Larry was born on September 6, 1942, in Brownwood, Texas, to J.T. and Fay Dell White. He graduated from Bangs High School in 1960 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Howard Payne University in 1965. He later received his Master of Teaching Arts from Angelo State University, preparing for the work that would define much of his life.

On December 23, 1967, Larry married Joy Lowry at Lake View Baptist Church in San Angelo. Over 58 years of marriage, they built a life rooted in faith, commitment, and genuine partnership. Their home was a place of warmth and steady love.

Larry devoted 33 years to the San Angelo Independent School District. He began his career as an elementary teacher in 1965, became a principal in 1978, and faithfully served until his retirement in 1998. He believed wholeheartedly in young people and in the calling of educators to shape both character and confidence. Retirement did not diminish his heart for children. Through Samaritan’s Purse and Operation Christmas Child, he handcrafted thousands of wooden cars for children around the world, each one carefully made and given with joy, hoping that through a simple gift they would experience the love of Jesus.

Family was the center of Larry’s world. His wife and two daughters were the great passion of his life. He expressed his love not just in words, but in time, effort, and shared work. He taught by example, inviting his girls into the garage, into projects, and into problem-solving. He was protective, present, and profoundly proud of the women they became. In 2013, Larry and Joy moved to Keller to be closer to their children and grandchildren, grateful for the everyday gift of being involved in their lives.

He was rarely happier than when he was building or fixing something. Larry loved woodworking, crafting

pens and canes, and collecting knives. He was a natural learner, always studying, always refining his skills. Patient and exacting, he believed things should be done carefully and done well. That steady, thoughtful approach shaped not only his work, but also his leadership and relationships.

The traits he modeled, building, studying, teaching, and creating, are reflected in the paths his grandchildren have chosen in architecture, geology, engineering, and education. Nothing pleased him more than seeing his influence carried forward in their interests and accomplishments.

A faithful member of First Baptist Keller, Larry especially enjoyed his Tuesday morning coffee with his men’s Sunday School friends. His faith was quiet and consistent, evident in his humility, generosity, and the way he treated people. He lived out the words of Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” And now, we rest in the promise of Matthew 25:23: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Gladys, and her husband, Ed Swindle; and his brother, Jimmy White.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Joy White; his daughters, Jennifer and her husband, Jason Webb of Flower Mound, and Dee Ann and her husband, Brad Slate of Keller; his cherished grandchildren, Jenna Webb, Rylee Slate, Jackson Webb, and Reese Slate; his brother, Clinton White and his wife, Carolyn, of Lubbock; his sister-in-law, Sharon White of Killeen; his brother-in-law, Jack Lowry of San Angelo; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Larry Ray White will be remembered as a faithful servant, a devoted husband, a steady father, a proud grandfather, and a trusted mentor. He built many beautiful things with his hands, but the life he built with his family was his greatest accomplishment. His example of faith, integrity, and steadfast love will continue to guide those who knew him and loved him.