Eddie Darnelle White went home to Jesus on August 29th, 2020 at age 72 after a valiant battle with a long illness. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace. Eddie was born on April 23, 1948 and was lovingly adopted by Eddie Sr. and Cecil Mae in Portsmouth, Virginia. As a child, Eddie was the apple of his parents’ eye.  He was a snapper dresser even as a young man. He had a love of football and basketball. He graduated from I.C. Norcom High School and attended Norfolk State University.

Eddie met Marian Crutchfield in high school, and they married in 1970. From this union one daughter was born: Marcia L. White. After divorcing, Eddie remarried to Anita Paige.  He fathered Anita’s son, Michael and they went on to have their son, Mario. Eddie loved all his kids dearly and was always a cheerleader for them.  

Early in Eddie’s life he lost his vision, later he would be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.  His diagnosis did not hinder Eddie from living his life to the fullest. On any given Sunday, Eddie would be found dawning the colors of maroon and yellow to cheer on his beloved Redskins.  There was many a playful argument had with friends as they chided him about their team was going to be his “Deadskins”.   He would just close his eyes, smile and laugh, and let the scoreboard do the talking for him.

In addition to enjoying sports, Eddie will be most remembered for is his unwavering faith in God.   He was a faithful and dedicated member of Holy Light Church of Deliverance under the leadership of Bishop S.L. Carruth. He dedicated his life to serving God whether that was being on the Deacon Board, serving on the telephone and food ministries, providing security for the church, or marching down the aisle with the Crusade Choir. Eddie also led a senior’s group of called the “Mature Saints” and he took them on every adventure he could to ensure they could enjoy life to the fullest.

He was a Godly man and led his family in the ways of the Lord.  He prayed with his kids, prayed for his kids and gave the best of what He had to them.  Most of all, the legacy that he will leave for medical staff, friends and family is that regardless of how dire the situation, when asked how he was doing, he would answer…”blessed.”  He is dearly missed by his loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his creator.

Eddie joins Eddie Sr, Cecil Mae in Heaven. He is survived by his daughter, Marcia White and his sons Mike Battle (Eva) and Mario White (Michelle); his grandchildren Hannah Battle, Erica Battle, Erin Battle, Zachariah Battle, Ethan White and Marcelo White.

Eddie’s memorial service will be at Corprew Funeral Home at 3:00 p.m. on September 12, with a repass and meal to follow. For those unable to physically attend, please call Corprew at (757) 399-4661 for streaming details or go to https://www.corprewfuneralhome.net/stream/

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society 

Psalm 1:1-2

Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;

But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.