My mother, Barbara Ann White, went home on August 8, 2024 at 82 years old. She was born in Detroit, Michigan and lived in Michigan with her parents and siblings until her late 20's. The family collectively moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee at various points in the early 1970's. My mom was the oldest of the 3 kids with younger sister Margaret and baby brother Kerry. The three were incredibly close throughout their lives.

Mom eventually landed in Clermont, FL, where she was close to her favorite place, Walt Disney World. She loved all things Disney and found her dream job working for Disney reservations. Being able to share her favorite place with families from all over the world was something that brought her true happiness.

Her faith and love for Jesus was unwavering and a constant source of peace in her heart. Outliving her parents and siblings was not something she expected and took a toll over the last year, but knowing they would be together again after this life was her comfort.

As for me, I don't think I was ever the daughter she expected. We were as different as night and day in almost everything, but she loved me unconditionally and gave me the world as much as she was able. As kindhearted as she was, her stubborn streak was the stuff of legends – that we always had in common, but all the better attributes I have are because of her and how much I always knew she loved me. She truly was the kindest, most generous person I've ever known. Her greatest joy was helping others find happiness, whether family, friends or strangers, but particularly her grandchildren. She loved my kids as fiercely as a human being could love. Being able to share her home in Florida and her love of Disney with them brought her the most joy of all.

Mom's health declined severely over the last several years, robbing her of far too much. There is comfort knowing she is reunited with her parents and siblings, who she has missed so deeply. I will miss her as deeply until we are together again. At which time I expect a significant amount of eye rolling and fussing at me…