Bernice Darden White

Bernice Darden White of Georgetown, formerly of Waco, passed away Tuesday, June 21, 2016. Her graveside service will be 2:00 p.m., Friday, June 24, at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, June 23, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey. Bernice was born January 26, 1924, in Hillsboro, Texas. After teaching for three years during WWII, she was employed with the Texas Department of Human Services for over 25 years as case worker, supervisor, contract services representative and Educational Director. Upon retirement in 1980, she began community volunteer services. She worked with programs for the elderly and was a strong advocate for elderly rights, privileges and responsibilities. Bernice was a member of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church since 1948, active in Adult Sunday School Dept., Neighbors International, visitation for the elderly and Meals on Wheels. She was a member of the American Association of University Women, Rosson Club, Friends of Waco-McLennan County Library, Republican Women of McLennan Co., Historic Waco Foundation, Providence Health Club, Baylor Alumni Association, Baylor Heritage Club, UNT Alumni Assoc., Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center Auxiliary, American Contract Bridge League (Life Master), Center for Studies in Aging, Friends for Life (Advisory board member) and served on the boards of several social service agencies. She married Bill White September 7, 1945, and they were married 66 years prior to his death in 2011. She was preceded in death by her mother, Mattie Miller; husband, Bill White; and grandson, Andy Varnell. She is survived by one daughter, Jerre Varnell and husband, Maurice, of Florence, Texas; three grandchildren, Amy Varnell Hanson and husband, Travis, of Georgetown, John Varnell and wife, Carrie, of The Woodlands, Texas, and Lauren Varnell Williams and husband, Aaron, of Florence; six great-grandchildren, Hailey Hanson, Daniel Varnell, Michael Varnell, Caroline Varnell, Aaron Williams III and Rex Williams; her sister, Jerre Morse of Waco; and sister-in-law, Sue Dossey of Ft. Worth. The family wishes to thank the Memory Care Unit of The Legacy of Georgetown for the last two years of her care. Memorials may be made to Baylor University and/or Texas Children's Hospital in Houston. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com.