Ronald H White Jr

Ronald (“Ron”) Henry White, Jr., a lifelong advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities and a beloved member of the Contra Costa County community, passed away on July 20, 2025 at the age of 89.
Ron was born on August 24, 1935, in Brockton, MA, to Ronald Henry White Sr. and Marjorie Ruth (Snyder) White. At the time, his father was completing his studies at Boston University School of Theology and serving as pastor of the Methodist Church in East Bridgewater, MA.
In 1937, the family relocated to California when Ron Sr. was appointed minister at the Methodist Church in Brentwood. Ron’s sister, Marsha was born in 1939. Methodist ministers were often reassigned churches, therefore the family moved—first to Millbrae in 1940, then Delano in 1944, and finally to Redwood City in 1947. There, his youngest sister, Carolyn, was born in 1950.
Ron attended Sequoia High School in Redwood City and later received his BA in Liberal Arts at Willamette University in Salem, Oregon. He went on to serve as a typist in the psychiatric unit during the Korean War. After returning home, he became Division Manager for Sears in Concord, CA, before beginning a career that would define his life’s purpose.
Ron found his calling working with individuals with developmental disabilities. He began as a driver for Martinez Bus Lines, transporting individuals to and from day programs throughout Central Contra Costa County. He later joined what is now known as Commercial Support Services (CSS)—a nonprofit organization offering lifelong support services to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Ron’s compassion, dedication, and deep commitment to this work made him an integral part of the CSS community. Over the years, he served in a number of roles, working directly with participants, their families, case managers and other professionals to help enrich the lives of the CSS community. His warmth, professionalism, and tireless advocacy earned him the admiration and affection of all who knew him. Ron went beyond his duties when the CSS bowling program was discontinued, stepping in to help start the Wild Turkeys, a bowling team composed of many participants with intellectual and physical disabilities from CSS and other like programs. Under his leadership, the team continued to grow. Every year, Ron organized an awards banquet where each bowler was recognized and celebrated with ribbons or trophies—many of which he spent tireless hours personally refurbishing from donations.
Ron also enjoyed being quiet in nature, reading, bowling, dart throwing (winning some competitions) and swimming. He was even known to be in the pool before the official opening hours! In other free time, Ron enjoyed movies, movies, movies (with a box of Good & Plenty in his youth and popcorn, always). A true movie buff, he loved quoting lines from films spanning decades. Ron loved to travel many places, but held a special place in his heart for the Hawaiian islands.
On November 1, 2003, Ron married the love of his life, LaVena “Vena” (Halls) White, and they shared a joyful life together in the Rossmoor community. They were part of the San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church congregation, finding joy and peace in their faith and church community. Ron truly enjoyed having Vena join the Wild Turkeys bowling events. Ron and Vena also shared a love of travel, exploring new places and creating lasting memories wherever they went.
Ron was a true and passionate conservationist. Most notably the California redwoods, giving donations regularly and even sponsoring specific trees in Big Basin, which he was very proud of. Ron belonged to State and National Parks membership programs, as well as contributed regularly to many organizations to preserve of our beautiful wildlife and land.
Ron is survived by wife, LaVena (Halls) White and children, Robert Scott White, Maureen Bigger, Curtis Winchester, Keith Winchester and Ken White, his loving sister, Marsha (White) Loveridge as well as their extended families - - including his nieces, nephews and grandchilden.
For all who had the privilege of knowing him, Ron will be remembered not only for his dedication to service but also for the joy and opportunity he brought to others through his unwavering kindness and generosity. He will be missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and former CSS & Wild Turkeys participants whose lives were enriched by his care.
If you would like to make a contribution to celebrate Ron’s life, donations may be made in Ron’s memory to Sempervirens Fund (Redwoods) Los Altos CA; Commercial Support Services (CSS) Concord CA; Restore Hetch Hetchy Valley Berkeley CA or any fund that supports the preservation of nature.