Joann Belle White

Joann Belle White, age 86, entered into eternal rest and was granted her wings on the evening of Saturday, May 12, 2018 in Bellingham.  Her final days were spent surrounded by family and friends. She was born to Joseph and Ada (King) Montgomery July 26, 1931 in Bellingham, Washington. Joann was preceded in death by her husband Harry White and infant son Ernest White. Joann is survived by her brother Larry Montgomery (Linda); her children Vivian Phare (Richard), Richard White (Shayo), Jan Hood (Dave, deceased), Susan Lignell (Lars); 14 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 3 great great-grand children Joann was a soldier/member of The Salvation Army.  Her home was always open to those in need and for her daughter’s friends when they were teenagers to just come and hang out.  She was known as Ma White to them. In the 1970’s she operated The Salvation Army Hospitality House for people in transition & the homeless until the Hospitality House closed their doors.  She then was asked by The Salvation Army to cook lunches for the Homeless out of the Salvation Army kitchen. The last few years before her illness she volunteered tirelessly at The Salvation Army Food bank. Joann would like you to know her work here is done.  She received a call, a sort of offer you can’t refuse, for an appointment that she will not be returning.  This assignment comes with a huge sign in bonus ~ Eternal Life!  AND a reunion with family and friends she has not seen in a while, especially her son Ernie who died as an infant. Her new mission takes her to a wonderful place called Heaven where she will be sitting at Jesus’ feet reading to her hearts content. A Memorial Service / Celebration of Life will be held Monday, July 16, 2018 11:00 AM at The Bellingham Salvation Army, 2912 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225 with a graveside service following with Military Honors, 2:00 PM at Greenacres Cemetery in Ferndale.   Memorial gifts may be made to The Salvation Army Food Bank, via food, volunteering or a Memorial Gift.