Dorothy White was born in Moorhead, Minnesota, but grew up in southeastern Idaho, an area known for growing “Idaho Spuds” and for long, cold winters. Her family attended the First Baptist Church in Idaho Falls.
She was baptized in that church at the age of 12 and began teaching Sunday school in the children’s department when she was in high school. She later graduated from Idaho Falls High School and attended Baylor University for two years.
After praying for a Christian husband (for what it seemed like a long time!), she met Mel White through mutual friends. He was born and raised in Alabama but came to Utah for his health. He was living in Salt Lake City when they met.
After marriage, they lived in Salt Lake, Las Vegas (where David was born) and Idaho before moving to St. George in 1972 to accept the pastorate of First Southern Baptist Church. The seven years they served in that capacity, until Mel’s retirement, were some of the happiest of their lives and they praised the Lord for allowing them to serve him in that way.
When Mel went home to be with the Lord, Dorothy felt it best to remain in St. George near the church and the people she loved. She taught the young adults class for many years and counted it a privilege.
For health reasons, she moved to Phoenix in 2008 to live with her son, David. She enjoyed church, meeting new people, visiting family as much as possible and hosting a Bible Study for the ladies from her church.
She believed in the power of prayer and wanted everyone to know one of my favorite prayer verses.
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever, Amen.” Ephesians 3:20.
Funeral services
- Funeral services will be held Saturday, Nov. 28, 11 a.m., at the First Southern Baptist Church, 326 S. 600 East, St. George, Utah.
- A visitation will be held prior to services, 10 a.m., at the church.
- Interment will follow in the St. George City Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221.
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