Sgt. Major Ronald Allen White

Sgt. Major Ronald Allen White, 83, passed away on June 27, 2025, surrounded by his daughter and grandson.

Ronald was born on August 28, 1941, in Logan, West Virginia, to the late Ruth Marcum and Patrick White. He moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where he spent his adolescent years. Ronald was the oldest of five children, and his first job as a teen was at Cleveland Blueprint.

One of Ronald’s favorite hobbies was fishing—especially on his boat. He also enjoyed watching sports and boxing. Ronald had a deep love for animals and generously supported any cause that helped children. He was always willing to lend a hand to those in need.

In Cleveland, he married the love of his life, Penny DeLesk, and lovingly helped raise her daughter, Loretta. They soon began their own family with the births of Karen and David. The fondest family memories include fishing trips, playing ball, and family game nights—poker being one of his favorite games.

Ronald joined the U.S. Army in 1971 and retired as a Command Sergeant Major. He was part of both the invasion of Grenada in 1983 and the invasion of Panama in 1989. Ronald achieved the top rank of his class and served as a Jumpmaster in the 82nd Airborne Division. After retiring in Fayetteville, NC, he owned a local bar (Gaslight) and worked as a construction ironworker.

In his later years, Ronald cherished spending time with his grandchildren, often sharing life lessons and emphasizing the importance of punctuality. Anyone who knew him would remember his firm expectations and structured routines.

Ronald was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Penny White; his son, David White; and his daughter, Loretta White. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his daughter, Karen White and son-in-law, Eric; sisters, Frances and Ann; grandchildren, Michael, Danté, Angelo, Naldi, Tashia, and Marlana; and great-grandchildren, Sophia, Carlos, Dominic, Jullyana, Layli, Niyli, and Omoni.

Words cannot express how deeply he will be missed.

The family will receive friends on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Rogers and Breece Funeral Home from 11:00 to 11:45 a.m. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. in the chapel, with burial to take place at Lafayette Memorial Park West.

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