Retired Colonel Eddie James White Sr., 75, of Fayetteville passed away on Thursday, May 5th, 2016.
He is survived by his wife, Sara White of the home; sons, Eddie J White Jr. and wife Kim of Raeford and William F. White and wife, Tabatha of Fayetteville; daughter, Bonnie Spooner and husband, Kevin of Fayetteville; and five grandchildren, Sarah, Colin, Billy, Samantha, and Dakota.
His career began in 1963 after receiving his commission from Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. He served two combat tours in Vietnam starting in July 1966 as well as in 1969, earning two Silver Stars, seven Bronze Stars (2 with Valor), seven Air Medals, 4 ARCOMS (2 With Valor), Combat Infantryman's Badge and the Purple Heart.
He continued his service post-Vietnam by earning his Green Beret and performing multiple duties in 5th Special Forces Group then accepting command of 2nd BN – 505th PIR in Fort Bragg. In 1988, he became the commander of 1st Special Forces Group at Fort Lewis, Washington. He culminated his career at Fort Bragg while serving as the Chief of Staff for Special Forces Command ABN in 1990.
He is remembered as a founding member of Village Christian Academy and as a dedicated patron and booster of all school activities. He dedicated his post military career to improving the lives of his grandchildren and their peers by tirelessly serving as a deacon, coach and mentor with Village Baptist Church and will be remembered as a loyal and committed friend to his community.
The funeral will be held at noon Thursday, May 12, 2016 in Village Baptist Church with Dr. Bruce Martin officiating. Interment will follow in Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, 2016 at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, please donate funds to the Green Beret Foundation or the Village Christian Academy Booster club in reference to the E.J. White Scholarship fund.