Gordon Baird “Jeff” White

1929 - September 12, 2017

Beloved husband and devoted father, grandfather and great grandfather, Gordon Baird “Jeff” White, 88, passed away on September 12, 2017 in Alameda, California.

Gordon, aka “Jeff”, the middle child of three brothers, was born May 1929 in San Diego, California, to Thomas and Marion (Baird) White. Jeff graduated from the University of California Berkeley (UCB) with a Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Political Science (1949), served as a Lieutenant in the Army (1951-1953), and then earned a law degree from UCB (1956). He was admitted to the California Bar in 1960, worked as a trial attorney in the Bay Area until 1993, and continued part-time for several more years. Upon retiring Jeff volunteered for the Alameda Red Cross and Alameda Food Bank. He enjoyed travel, playing golf, bridge and performing in musicals and throughout his life was known for his articulate voice and fine sense of humor.

Jeff is survived by his devoted loving wife of 26 years, Marlis White; and his children Gregory Brian White (Lisa Pokorny), Diane Kimberley White, Colleen Davenport White, as well as grandchildren Kayla White, Katrina White, Julia Pokorny and Vaughn White; and great-grandchildren, Felix and Reagan Smith. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Stephen Mullen (June Yasemsky), Enita Pendleton (Matthew) and Charles Mullen (Teri), as well as six step grandchildren, two great step grandchildren, and numerous nephews, nieces, and in-laws across the country. He was preceded in death by his eldest son, Douglas Baird White (Robin); former wife, Valerie (Milmore) Wolf; and his brothers Thomas Bowman White, Jr. and James Bradley White.

The family is grateful for your kind wishes and support. A private family memorial service and celebration of his life will be held. In lieu of flowers, Jeff requested to please send your donations to your local Red Cross Chapter, the Alameda Food Bank and the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley.