John Townsend White, 71, of Vernon, Texas, peacefully entered Heaven on Saturday, March 28, 2026. Born in El Paso, Texas, on July 2, 1954, John was the eldest son of the late Clinton Shelton White and Patricia Townsend White.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 5, 2026, at 2:30 pm at First Methodist Church in Vernon, Texas.

A proud 1972 graduate of Irvin High School in El Paso, John went on to attend Texas A&M University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Zoology and a Master's degree in Educational Administration.

John dedicated his professional life to university administration, shaping student life at Texas A&M University, Texas State University, the University of Texas at San Antonio, Kent State University, and Case Western Reserve University. He also served with the Century Campus Housing Corporation before retiring to Vernon. Throughout his career, John was a pillar of integrity and leadership. His dedication was recognized by the Southwest Association of College and University Housing Officers (SWACUHO), which honored him with both the Distinguished Service Award and their highest accolade, the Jim Gibson Exceptional Service Award.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John was a man of diverse talents and a generous spirit. He was a successful breeder and trainer of Smooth Coated Jack Russell Terriers and found great joy in entertaining family and friends. A man of deep faith, he was a member of the First Methodist Church.

John was preceded in death by his loving husband and partner of thirty years, Arturo "Artt" Chapa; his parents, Clinton and Patricia White; his brother, Timothy White; and his sister, Deborah Pancoast.

John is survived by his sister, Carrie White of College Station, Texas; the family of Arturo Chapa, who remained a central and beloved part of his life; and his nieces and nephews, Juliet Wadman, Sandy Crump, Marcus Crump, and Lucas Crump. He also leaves behind his great-nephew, Tyler Wadman; his loyal companion, his dog, Bailey; and a large, loving extended family of aunts, cousins, and dear friends.

John will be remembered for his compassion, his quick wit, and his unwavering honesty. As the saying goes, "When someone you love becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure." John will remain a treasure in the hearts of all who knew him.

Memorial Services
A memorial service will be held in the coming weeks to celebrate John's life.

Expressions of Sympathy
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made in John's name to:

●        The First Methodist Church

●        The Wilbarger County Humane Society