Jeffery Scott White's Obituary
It is with deeply heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jeffery Scott White, affectionately known as “Jeff,” who departed this life on December 12, 2024, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 46. Born on January 16, 1978, in Sedalia, Missouri, Jeff’s vibrant spirit and love for life touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Jeff grew up in Clinton, Missouri, where his love for sports and community began to shine. He played baseball in his early years and excelled in golf throughout high school, forming lifelong friendships along the way. After graduating from Clinton High School, Jeff pursued his education at State Fair Community College in Sedalia, Missouri, where he earned an associate degree in IT. A natural leader from a young age, Jeff served as student body president during his sophomore year.
On May 29, 2004, Jeff married his best friend and the absolute love of his life, Katie Beth Rucker, in Jenks, Oklahoma. Together, they built a beautiful life of 20 years, raising their children, Brett (16) and Katelyn (12), who were Jeff’s greatest joys and proudest achievements. Whether coaching, cheering from the sidelines, or making their favorite meals, Jeff’s unconditional devotion to his family was evident in every moment.
Jeff’s professional career showcased his strong work ethic. He worked for MFA Oil Company in Columbia, Missouri, from 2000 to 2008, and later at Tulsa County IT, where he served from 2009 until his passing. Known for his humor and ability to light up a room, Jeff brought warmth and a sense of camaraderie to every workplace. His colleagues will fondly remember him as someone who could turn even the most challenging day into one filled with laughter and solutions.
Jeff had many passions in life. He was a proud and loyal Kansas City Chiefs fan, rarely missing a game and always sporting his beloved red. Whether cooking up something special in the kitchen, hitting the golf course, watching Mizzou play, or listening to worship music, Jeff embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. He truly never met a stranger. Jeff's ability to entertain and make others laugh was one of his greatest gifts—one that will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.
Jeff was preceded in death by his grandfathers, David F. Harms, James Jay White, Don Juan White, and his grandmother, Zada Estelle White. He is survived by his loving wife, Katie White; his children, Brett and Katelyn White; his parents, Sebring and Diana White; his grandmother, Eleanor Jean Harms; his father and mother in-law, Truman and Kaye Rucker; his uncles and aunts, John & Donna Mack, Richard & Debbie Binder, and Karen Harms; his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Dan & Jill Rucker and Tim & Casey Rucker; his nieces, and countless extended family members and dear friends who loved him.
Jeff’s legacy of laughter, kindness, and thoughtfulness will live on in the hearts of those he touched. As it says in Isaiah 40:31, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”
Though our hearts are heavy, Jeff's family takes comfort in knowing that Jeff’s spirit is flying high, as he is now free from any earthly pain, at peace with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Tulsa County IT, Memorial Drive Church of Christ, Park Lane Early Childhood Center, and the Eagle Point neighborhood for their love, prayers, and unwavering support during this time.
A public time of visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, at Floral Haven Funeral Home: 6500 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the INTEGRIS Health Foundation. Donations may be directed to either the Transplant Center or Child Life Center in memory of Jeff. For more information or to contribute, please contact Monica Smith, Senior Philanthropy Officer, at 580.791.0032 or visit integrisgiving.org
Those wishing to send flowers for the service may do so by calling Floral Designs by Floral Haven at (918) 459-1525. Independent florists may deliver flowers directly to Floral Haven Funeral Home by 4:00 PM on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, in order for them to be set out and properly displayed for Jeff's visitation in a timely manner.
A memorial service to honor the life of Jeff will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Memorial Drive Church of Christ, located at: 1438 S Indianapolis Ave, Tulsa, OK 74112, with Pastor Jason Thornton officiating.
In honor of Jeff’s love for the Kansas City Chiefs, his family kindly invites guests to consider wearing red to his visitation and memorial service. KC or Mizzou jerseys are also welcome. While not required, this gesture would be a heartfelt tribute to Jeff’s spirit, passion for football, and would mean a great deal to his family.
Jeff's inurnment will be scheduled for a later date at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens in The Heritage Mausoleum.
Arrangements entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home.
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