With profound sadness, our family announces the unexpected passing of Jay White on November 27, 2022, after a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend spent together at Pensacola Beach.

Born in Pensacola on September 2, 1955, to J. George and Christine White, he grew up loving the coast, surfing, and fishing.

Jay graduated from W.J. Woodham High School in 1974. He attended The University of Florida where he received his bachelor's degree in 1980. He continued to pursue his education, receiving his Juris Doctor from The University of Florida College of Law in 1983. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Phi Delta Phi Legal Honor Society, and Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

After graduation, Jay immersed himself in the practice of law in West Palm Beach and was elected to every position of the Palm Beach County Bar Association, including president. His most notable accomplishment was serving as President of The Florida Bar from 2008 to 2009, which he viewed as a great honor and privilege.

Jay was a man of outstanding character, guided by a strong moral compass, integrity, honesty, and compassion. When he walked into a room, the energy he exuded was palpable. He was truly a unique individual who was known for his love of family, friends, and the legal profession.

Jay was preceded in death by his father and mother, J. George and Christine White; aunts, Irene Ruston and Elizabeth (Keiki) Cunningham; his wife, Kim; and his nephew, Gregory Suskind.

He is survived by his sister, Celeste White Phelps (Edgar) of Pensacola; his brother, James Sheldon White (Dongming) of Tallahassee; his nieces, Jennifer Suskind, Morgan Ellis, Michelle White, Carly White, Orie White, and Harmony Wooten; a nephew, Alexander Suskind; a stepson, Tyler LaScala; and numerous cousins, whom he considered as brothers and sisters.

A private funeral was held in Pensacola where Jay was laid to rest at Bayview Memorial Park. A Celebration of Life will be held in West Palm Beach in February.

Jay touched so many lives in such a quiet and selfless way. Should you wish to make a donation in Jay's memory, please consider the following:

1) Hearts for Mom at www.HeartsForMom.org

2) Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County at www.legalaidpbc.org

We will fondly remember his genuine smile and the twinkle in his eyes.

Go Gators!!

Full article in the Florida Bar Magazine on Jay: Former Florida Bar President Jay White passes away – The Florida Bar