Peoples Funeral Home | Marianna, FL

Obituary For Dr. Cottee J. White

Dr. Cottee J. White entered eternal rest on Wednesday, September 23, 2020 in Denver, CO.

He was born in Marianna, Florida on September 2, 1940 to Earnest and Lillian White. He was the youngest of seven children and the foundation of his life was his loving family. He accepted Christ at an early age at Bethlehem A.M.E. Church and remained a faithful member all his life.

He received his elementary and high school education at the historical all black Jackson County Training School. He was always recognized by his teachers and administrators as an outstanding student. His love for learning led him to continue his education. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Social Studies Education from Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, FL. He earned his Master of Arts degree in Social Sciences with concentrations in Sociology and Anthropology from Indiana University, Bloomington, IN. He was awarded a NDEA grant for an academic year of study at New York University. He completed the requirements for a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Human Affairs with concentrations in Sociology and Ethnic Studies at Florida State University. During his career he was a catalyst for academic excellence for many students and scholars as he served on staff at several prestigious colleges and universities across the country including Albany State University, Albany, GA. For nearly two decades he was on staff at Metro State College as a Professor and African American Studies Chair. Even after retiring in 2003 Dr. White still regularly connected with former students, conducted various types of research, and wrote and presented papers at conferences. His love of learning and teaching matched his love for travel as he traveled throughout the United States and the world including East and South Africa. Those were one of a kind experiences, but throughout the years his travels always led him to being reunited with family for wonderful times in California, Michigan and as often as he could where his journey began in Marianna, FL.

His family legacy was so important to him and he found great joy in going through the family photo albums that his mother had left and he had many of them beautifully framed as a reflection of family history. He also collected books by African and African American authors, including ones by female authors and stories for children.

He will be missed and lovingly remembered by his brothers Theo White-Rocklin, CA, James White (Ruby)-Detroit, MI, Donnie Roulhac (Shirley)-Marianna, FL, sister Mable Gilbert (Toney)-Marianna, FL, aunt Curlee Russ-Cottondale, FL, sister-in-law Lucy White-VA and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, family, friends, colleagues and students. He is preceded in death by his parents, Earnest and Lillian White, his brothers I. V. White, L. V. White, Eddie White, sisters-in-law, Every White, Barbara White, Louise White, and nephew Eddie White Jr.

A homegoing celebration will be held graveside Saturday, October 10th at 11:00 a.m. at Bethlehem African Methodist Episcopal Church with Pastor Carl Hill and Min. Sandra Laster officiating. Interment will follow with arrangements entrusted to the Caring Staff at Peoples Funeral Home of Marianna.

Guest Book

I had the privilege of working with C.J. during his tenure at Metro. He was an incredible man, making significant contributions as a teacher, researcher and community activist. He served as a mentor for students and colleagues alike. He was a wonderful resource person and his passion for teaching made me a better teacher. He was always available for support and consultation. My condolences to his family. He will truly be missed. - Martha Shwayder, Denver, CO

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Dr. White was such an inspiration to me and having him as a professor for 5 of my classes was life changing. I will never forget him and I appreciate the fact that he introduced me to different writers and activists. He encouraged me to get my Masters degree which I did. I became and educator myself and took his wisdom with me. He will live on in my heart and many others. Patty Suich

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Dr. White was an instrumental figure in my coming of age as a budding scholar. His love of Black people, culture, and all aspects of the community greatly influenced my career. I appreciate his gentle, yet high expectations that he held for all of us who were blessed to be under his tutelage at Metro State. To his family, may the best of Dr. White continue to live on with each one of you. Thank you for sharing him with the world. May God richly bless you. Chante Eldridge

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I loved my Uncle Cottee so much! I admired and appreciated him. You will truly be missed. Rest In Peace Dr. White. I love you your niece Rochelle

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I offer my condolences to the family of Dr. White. He was a legendary professor on the Auraria campus in Denver, Colorado and a great model for several generations of younger educators. We will miss him. - Rachel Harding

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He was my cousin, Sunday School teacher and such a profound influence in my life at a young age. I shared those treasures with my children that I was blessed to have had that opportunity. The last time I saw him I told him just that and he was so surprised not pompous at all and he said "really"? But then if you really knew him you would say that's Cottee. He just had a way to listen intently as you spoke. The world (my) is a better place because of his being. Much love and comfort to his siblings. Coral Speight-Gardner (Miami, Fl)

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I loved Dr. White! He is the reason I am in education and why I write today. His example and mentorship were life-changing. I will miss his presence. To the family of Dr. White I am praying for you. I thank God for Dr. White and his legacy. Vernal Pope

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My cousin Cottee will be deeply missed but he will never be forgotten. Growing up in Marianna, I always looked up to my older cousin. He was always so warm, sweet and soft-spoken every time you saw him. He was also incredibly smart and became a local celebrity in Marianna for exceling in school. My cousin was not the type of person to pat himself on the back but he was the type of person to have your back. It's with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to Cottee but I'm so grateful for the time I got to spend with him because he taught me the value of a life well-lived. We are only on this earth for a short period of time. Life is all about the dash, the line etched in a headstone between the date of birth and date of death. Cottee lived a life that was full of love and light. He used the dash well. With love from your cousin from the Bethlehem community. Jane Speights Lowe

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Dr. White was a life changing educator for me. He introduced to different writers and activists. Also, he was inspirational by demonstrating how to make a difference. I have never forgotten him. My sympathy to the family.

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Dr. White, (C.J) was my friend, mentor and colleague! He will always have a special place in my heart. I thank God for all that we shared together. Rest In Peace and light up the heavens! Martelle Chapital-Smith

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Dr. White helped to make me who I am today. He believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. I chose to spend my life in higher education due to his support and mentorship. Thank you for taking me under your wing at Metro State. Thank you for holding me accountable. I am a better person for having known Dr. White. Thank you for everything!

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Dr. White was a GREAT inspiration to me as one of his students. He inspired me to acquire a Masters degree as well as a Doctor's degree. He will be missed.

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So sorry to hear this. I was just trying to find him on Google as he was a world class teacher for us at ECSU IN Elizabeth city.He was patient and kind and everyone loved his classes because he made them so interesting. My condolences to his family.Just wish I knew he had a Michigan connection. What a great loss to the Educational Community. RIP Dr.White, a special place awaits you in heaven. Ed and Linda Tillery Bloomfield Hills, Mi.

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Peoples Funeral Home | Marianna, FL