Alton Ovid White

Alton O. White: "A Man of Integrity"

Alton Ovid Aloysius White, affectionately known as Gramps, Pops, Poopy, Popper, Uncle Al, Snugs, and countless other nicknames, was born on February 29, 1948. His leap year birth date was just the first of many unique characteristics that set Alton apart. In true stand out fashion, Alton said goodbye to this side of life on Friday September 25, 2026 - precisely one year to the date that his beloved brother-in-law, Noel Fitzgerald Mason, passed on to glory. No doubt, they’re both chuckling at the coordination of their timing. Alton is also enjoying a warm reunion with his Mom, sweetly known as Aunt Darling, his gentle big brother Walford (Wally) White, charismatic brother-in-law, Raphael Mason Jr., and loving mother and father in law, Florence and Raphael Mason Sr.

Alton was born in Portland, Port Antonio, Jamaica, 78 years ago. He was the youngest son to Theodocia Cassandra White, and the adoring little brother to Walford (Wally) White (deceased 2016) and Veta McCain, who still resides in Jamaica. Alton spent most of his formative years in Port Antonio, where he lived with his Aunty Rebecca and cousin Beverley Massey. Even though his Mom was thousands of miles away, bravely taking on employment in both England and Canada so that she could pay his school fees, he honoured her sacrifices by becoming an exceptional student. At Titchfield High School, where he completed the majority of his pre-secondary education, he excelled in English, Geography, and Math, conquered Latin, took a liking to French, and won several half scholarships. Alton’s academic feats continued in Canada, where within months of immigrating, he enrolled in York University as a part-time evening student. After nine years of study and dogged determination, Alton earned himself a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Clearly, Alton’s focus on personal excellence and learning never wavered. In fact, he took the same mindset into his pursuit and capture of Caroline Mason, the stunning runner up in the Miss Portland beauty contest and, more dauntingly, his pastor’s daughter!

Marrying the pastor’s only daughter compounded his commitment to a life of service and spiritual leadership. Alton and Carol were accepted as candidates to be trained as full-time Salvation Army ministers, but after moving to Canada, they took a slightly different path. They joined the United Pentecostal Church (UPC), where he earned his local ministerial license and went on to become an effective Sunday School teacher, honourable secretary treasurer, wise church board member, compassionate director of congregational care, and served in many more unnamed roles. His profound faith in God and unforced humility were by far his most admirable and inspiring traits.

Alton is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Caroline Mae White. With this former beauty contestant and queen of his heart, he had two children- Kevin and Patrice, who eventually brought their spouses, Jacqueline Samuels and Raul Li into the fold. Through Kevin and Jacqueline, he was further blessed with two gorgeous granddaughters, Aija-Simone and Tia Renee, and the promise that they too will one day be joined to life partners who will care for their hearts. Alton is also survived by his big sister, Veta McKain, his sister-in-law, Florence White, and his first nieces and nephews: Antoinette (Kim), Everton (Steve), Richard, Alethea, Heather, Tracey and Renae. Behind them are numerous nieces and nephews; too many to name, but all equally loved.

Alton was a mentor, surrogate father and genuine friend to countless people. We will truly never know the reach of his helping hand and the extent of his impact. What we do know is that he left behind a legacy of peace, compassion and love. For all those who aspire to make a difference in their corner of the world, Alton Ovid Aloysius White will forever stand as a benchmark of excellence and integrity.

If desired, donations to the Parkinson Canada would be appreciated by the family.

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