Rev. Dr. James G. White
Rev. Dr. James G. White, a former Milwaukee County Supervisor died last week on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2013 at the age of 51 suddenly. The cause of death has not been released. As the shock of White’s death made its way through the community several friends expresses their condolences.
Congresswoman Gwen Moore said after hearing of White’s death who was also her close friend she said, “I am deeply saddened to learn that James White is no longer with us. James was a close friend and tireless advocate for civil rights, youth and the poor. Milwaukee has lost a great man who consistently supported our underserved communities. A powerful voice for the voiceless, he provided support to those suffering from health related issues. In his former role as Milwaukee County Supervisor, James worked each day towards advancing the lives of Milwaukeeans as a strong community activist. In his calling as an ordained minister, he sought to fully embody the Christian spirit through his work.”
She continued, “James will be deeply missed by all who were touched by his passionate and loving spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with all who knew him. As we mourn in the days ahead, may we seek comfort in knowing he rests with God.”
Alderwoman Milele Coggs stated, “It is with a heavy heart, through tears and a sense of disbelief that I share some very sad news. Today I lost a great mentor, friend, constituent, agency leader and Godfather, and this community lost James G. White.”
She also added, “There are no words that can adequately chronicle all of his positive attributes and the impact that his words and deeds have had on this community and so many of its members. I had the tremendous fortune of first getting to know Mr. White as a youth when I was involved in various programs. As a Milwaukee County Supervisor he served with vision and integrity, and most recently as Regional Vice-President of WestCare WI – Harambee Community Center (formerly Harambee Ombudsman Project) he led the charge to bring an unparalleled level of service to the Harambee neighborhood. It will always be my honor to have known him, and I will carry with me always the lessons in leadership he shared. My prayers are with his family at this time.”
White was widely known throughout the community even before he entered the arena of politics. In the 1990s, he was a hip hop recording artist, whose stage name was the Ghetto Priest. He continued to perform, including a rap delivered at a recent Juneteenth celebration.
He served on the County Board from 1996 to 2008. He served as chairman of the board’s transportation committee and was first vice chairman of the board.
He graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee and attended the Milwaukee School of Engineering graduate program. He also earned a doctor of divinity degree from Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary.
White is survived by his wife and two daughters. Combined Services for White are scheduled for Friday, September 6, 2013, beginning with a Visitation from 10:00 am-11:00 am. Funeral services following at 11AM, at Christian Faith Fellowship C.O.G.I.C., 8605 W. Good Hope Rd. Interment: Graceland Cemetery. Arrangements Entrusted to: Serenity Funeral Home, 4217 W. Fond du Lac Ave., 414- 445-3700.