Mildred Lorene White, age 100, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026. She was born on July 5, 1925, in Payson, Oklahoma, to George and Ola Bishop.

Mildred grew up in Oklahoma, where she graduated from high school and began a life defined by devotion to family, resilience, and simple joys. As a young woman, she met the love of her life while he was serving in the United States Army. At the age of 21, the couple made their home in Springfield, Missouri, where they built a life together filled with love and lasting memories.

In 1946, Mildred welcomed her first child, Larry, followed by her daughter, Phyllis, in 1950. She embraced her role as a homemaker with pride and care, creating a warm and nurturing home for her family. Mildred was known for her frugality and resourcefulness, always making the most of what she had and ensuring her family was well cared for.

Her family cherishes many fond memories, including a special trip to Pikes Peak, Colorado, during her children’s younger years. Mildred expressed her love through her hands, sewing clothes for her daughter and crafting beautiful crocheted and knitted afghans that will be treasured for generations.

Above all, Mildred had a deep love for ballroom dancing. She delighted in dressing up and attending dances whenever she could, bringing joy and elegance to the dance floor throughout her life.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, George and Ola Bishop; her beloved husband, Robert L. White; her longtime loving companion Melvin Maggard; and her siblings.

She is survived by her children, Larry White and Phyllis Richerson; her grandchildren, Bryan and his wife Laurie, Jeff and his wife Kristine, Jennifer and her husband Ryan, and Kameron Richerson; her great-grandchildren, Austin, Kenson, Ella, Avery, Emma, Jared and Ashley; and her great-great-grandchild, Haven.

Mildred will be remembered for her strength, her creativity, her love of family, and the warmth she brought into her home and every heart she touched. Her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured and the memories they will carry forward.