Dr. Arleen White 1943-2023
Family Honor
A Tribute to a Mother’s Love: A Legacy That Lives On
My mom’s love, grace, and kindness shaped the very core of who I am. She lived her life in service to others, offering compassion without hesitation and lifting people up in ways that left a lasting impact.
Texas Roots
Dr. Arleen White was born on December 13, 1943, in Dallas, Texas, to Noah and Cecil White. She graduated as salutatorian of the Woodrow Wilson High School Class of 1962 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics, a Master’s degree in Counseling, and ultimately a Doctorate in Counseling from East Texas State University in Commerce in 1972.
Serving Others FIRST
For 42 years, Dr. White devoted her life to higher education across Texas, serving as an academic advisor, grant writer, professor, and tireless advocate for students seeking opportunity. Alongside her work in education, she was also a Licensed Professional Counselor who poured her heart into supporting children, families, and the mental health community. Her impact on the lives she touched is immeasurable.
Tennessee Legacy
I am so fortunate that my mother retired in 2014, right when my youngest started kindergarten. She was a daily part of the boys’ lives during those early, important years — the years when their personalities were forming and their hearts were growing. I truly believe there is a lot of her in them.
Being in East Tennessee, she also had the chance to watch my mortgage career begin that same year and really take off in 2020. Knowing she saw me step into my purpose, grow in this industry, and become the woman she raised me to be is something I hold close to my heart every single day.