Obituary of James Glenn White, New Waterford

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of James Glenn White, surrounded by his loving family, on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at the age of 73. Glenn was born on August 3, 1951 in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.

Glenn met the love of his life, Diane McDonald, at a high school dance and the two spent 55 loving years together. He was a Cape Breton coal miner for 30 years and worked in #26, Lingan, Phalen and Prince mines. Glenn spent many years as a Draegerman, took part in countless competitions, and received a Medal of Bravery from the Government of Canada for his heroic efforts with the rescue teams of the Westray mine disaster. He retired as Underground Mine Manager in 1999.

Glenn is predeceased by his parents, James and Jackie (MacDonald) White; his sister, Linda Shaw; and his beloved daughter, Michelle Curtis.

Surviving are his wife, Diane; his son, Curtis (Vanda); his daughter, Kendra (Kenny); son-in-law, Karl; his grandchildren, whom he was so proud of, Vanessa, Francesco, Sophie, Drew and Harrison; and his great-grandson, Mateo. He is also survived by his sister, Janet (Billy) McPherson; brother, Darrell White; brothers-in-law, Joe Shaw, Kenneth (Sylvia) McDonald; sisters-in-law, Linda (David) MacKay, Elizabeth (Darrell) MacInnis and Janet (Chris) Downs. Glenn will be dearly missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins. He will also be greatly missed by his small pal, Odie, who has been his daily companion.

The family would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to the staff of the Coronary Care Unit and Glenn's niece, Dr. Rose MacKay, for the compassion, kindness, and guidance we received during Glenn's short stay at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024 from noon until the time of the service at 1 p.m. all in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home Chapel, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. Father Godwin Obike officiating. A reception will follow in the funeral home. Burial will be held in St. Joseph cemetery, Lingan, following the reception. 

Family flowers only. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Glenn's memory to Hospice Cape Breton.

Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca.