Donald Gene White

Donald Gene White, more affectionately known to his family and friends as "Donnie,” passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the age of 74. He was born June 11, 1952, to Dean and Maxine White in Turley, Okla.

Over the years he made a lot of friends, whether it was at his Springfield business, White Motor Company of which he was owner/operator for 30 years, or at various car shows in Missouri and surrounding states. He also enjoyed time spent with friends racing slot cars on a track at White Motor Company. During his ownership of White Motor Company, there were over 19,000 vehicles sold.

He was on the Motor Vehicle Commission with Mel Carnahan, serving four years.

He had numerous classic cars over the years, but his favorite was his beautiful two-toned coral and gray 1955 Chevy Bel Air. You could often find him and Deliana cruising Kearney Street or parked at Steak N’ Shake visiting with fellow car enthusiasts. Many of their Sunday afternoons were spent taking drives in the Bel Air taking in the beautiful Ozark's scenery and enjoying each other's company. He also owned a black 1947 Mercury that won every award held at the NSRA at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. He shared a special bond with his grandson, Liam. They enjoyed time spent with together fishing and using the paddleboat.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dean White; and mother, Maxine (Abney) White.

He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Deliana White; sister Barbara Blades, of Crane; brother Ron White (Ginny) of Crane; brother Steve White (Brenda) Republic; stepson Jason Vestal; daughters, LaDonna (Rob) Woolsey, and Haley Telford; six grandchildren; uncles, aunts, numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.

A celebration of life was at 6 p.m. Monday, July 20, 2026, at Crossway Baptist Church, Springfield. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to Crossway Baptist Church Freeway Ministries freewayministries.churchcenter.com/giving.