Minnie Oka (McLaughlin) White

Minnie Oka McLaughlin White, age 91, of Unicoi, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus, on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, while she was surrounded by her family. She was a lifelong resident of Unicoi and a daughter of the late Ephriam McLaughlin and Rosy Campbell McLaughlin.

Minnie was a self-employed painter, and she painted the interior of many homes throughout Unicoi County. She was a member of Unicoi Church of God for many years. Minnie began attending Maranatha Tabernacle after Reverend Eugene Penlend left Unicoi Church of God. She was active in the Ladies Auxiliary at Maranatha.

Minnie had a very generous, and kind heart of gold. She loved helping others and bringing a smile to someone’s face. Minnie enjoyed making her delicious homemade candy to share with family and friends. A friend of Minnie’s once said, when I think of Unicoi, I think of Minnie. She was the epitome of love and friendship. Minnie attended all her grandson’s sporting events throughout high school and college.

Minnie loved to travel until her health began to decline. Her grandson, Logan played an instrumental role in caring for his grandmother over the past two years.

In addition to her parents, Minnie was preceded in death by her husband of fifty-seven years, Herman Charles White on June 25, 2007; two brothers: Frank and Henry McLaughlin; one sister, Mary Smith.

Minnie leaves behind to cherish many precious memories, her two children: Roger White and wife, Janie, of Jonesborough and Diane Lyle, of Unicoi; four grandchildren: Michelle White Hernandez (Noe), of Gray, Fred D. “Freddie” Lyle, IV (fiancé, Candace Meadows), Logan Hunter Lyle, and Ethan Lyle, all of Unicoi; two great grandsons: Brayden Hubbard and Porter Huskins; one brother, Bobby McLaughlin, of Erwin; one sister, Betty Francis (Sid), of Jonesborough; special friend, Tina and her granddaughter, Zoey; several nieces, nephews and friends also survive.

The White family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Maranatha Tabernacle. Reverend E.L. Wheeler will officiate the 7:00 p.m. funeral service. Music will be provided by Queenie Wheeler. Committal will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday in Jones Cemetery. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Those wishing to attend the committal should meet at the cemetery by 10:50 a.m. on Wednesday.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Christian Care Center of Unicoi County and Gentiva Hospice for the great care given to Minnie. 

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the White family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com. 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin is privileged to serve the White family. (423) 743-1380.

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