Mother Geraldine White

In Loving Memory of Mother Geraldine White was born on October 30, 1939 in Oak Forest, Arkansas to Rev. Dr. Jasper and Lorene Stephens, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husband (Deacon Charles Henry White), her son (Keith Allan White), two brothers (Jasper and Robert Stephens) and two grandchildren (Jelisa and LaKneisha White). Geraldine was the eldest daughter of eleven children born out of the marriage of Jasper and Lorene. Growing up, Geraldine loved going to church and would follow her father, Pastor Stephens, to church. As a child, Geraldine would speak at church and conventions. This love for church led Geraldine to give her life to Christ at eleven years old. She was baptized by Rev. E. A. King at Old Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church. Geraldine was also a member of the Baptist Young People Training Union (BYPTU) and The Old Mount Pilgrim Youth Choir. Geraldine’s journey to seek after God’s heart led her to be a servant in the church. In her adulthood, Geraldine became both a Deaconess and Mother of the Church. Geraldine also enjoyed reading as a child. Geraldine spent much time reading books at the local library or reading her Bible at home. Geraldine received her education through Detroit Public Schools where she graduated from Central High School at the age of sixteen with Honors. At Central High School, Geraldine was on the Tennis Team. After high school, Geraldine’s brother, Robert, introduced her to the love of her life and husband of 61 years, Charles. Charles asked for Geraldine’s hand in marriage and Jasper agreed under one condition: Charles would make sure that Geraldine became a registered nurse. Charles and Geraldine joined in holy matrimony on August 11, 1956. From this union, 8 children were born: Charles Michael, Arthur, Leonard, Anthony, Jeffrey, Keith, Caroline and Jacqueline. Once married, Geraldine continued her academic pursuit and attended Wayne County Community College and Madonna University. She ultimately went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from MDTA. Upon completion of her Nursing degree, Geraldine began her career at Grace Hospital where she was the first African-American Nurse hired. After over 20 years in the nursing field, Geraldine retired from nursing in 1982. After Retirement, Geraldine followed her passion for interior design and opened Gerry’s Silk Floral Creations at Gibraltar Trade Center in Taylor, Michigan. In addition to her love for interior design, Geraldine enjoyed fashion, cooking and hosting. Geraldine was known for dressing well and cooking large meals for the entire family each and every holiday. Her fashion, like the events that she hosted, was known to be tasteful and elegant.

Mother Geraldine White

October 30, 1939 - May 19, 2023