Clara M. White

Clara White passed away peacefully surrounded by love, just a few weeks shy of her 102nd birthday.

Clara grew up on a farm as one of thirteen children, where she learned the values of family, faith, and caring for others that guided her throughout her life. She shared a remarkable 78-year marriage with her beloved husband, George White—a true testament to enduring love and partnership. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, love, and unwavering support for one another, creating a strong foundation for their family and all who knew them. They spent over 30 years in Vero Beach, Florida, where she formed lasting friendships and was deeply involved in her church community.

She is survived by her devoted husband, George White, and her three children, David (Anne) White, Diane Parisey, and Georgann "Gigi" Sheltraw. She was a guiding light to everyone she encountered, always offering kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support. Known lovingly as “Nana” to her grandchildren, her legacy continues through Danny White (Megan), Kevin White (Jenna), Amber Graf (Patrick), Alicia Parisey, Emily Sheltraw (Kevin), Gabrielle Ivarson (Nick), and Clarissa Sheltraw, as well as her great-grandchildren, Kylie, Mason, and Benjamin. She was preceded in death by her grandsons, Michael White and Howard Sheltraw.

Clara dedicated 35 years as a hospice volunteer, offering comfort, compassion, and dignity to those in need. A devoted Catholic, her faith was central to her life and guided her actions each day. She lived this through service, kindness, and a deep commitment to others. She also had a love for painting and found joy in creating and sharing her artwork with others. In her own special way, she brought smiles to many by dressing as a clown and visiting nursing homes, spreading laughter and joy to those around her.

Clara lived a long, healthy life. If you asked her the secret, she would say, “Keep moving!” Up until just a few years ago, she could still get down on the floor and hold a three-minute plank— timing herself by saying the rosary rather than using a stopwatch—a true testament to her strength and determination. She was a strong woman, both inside and out.

She will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith. Clara’s life was a beautiful example of love in action, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 7, from 4-7pm, at the Palmer Funeral Home-Gusinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan Street South Bend IN.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 8, 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Church 220 W 4th Street Mishawaka, IN. Burial will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola, IN. 

Her faith was her foundation, her love was her legacy, and her spirit will live on in all she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place 46545.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.