Gordon W. White

HOLDEN, MA - Gordon Wilfred White, 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 16, 2023. A lifelong resident of Holden, MA, Gordon was the son of the late Lavinia and Samuel White.

Gordon was a member of the First Baptist Church of Holden his entire life. He was a prominent figure known for his cooking abilities, sense of humor and welcoming smile. Gordon was also well known for his volunteerism in the Town of Holden. In 2012, Gordon won the Good Neighbor Award from the Holden Democratic Town Committee for contributions made to the community through volunteer activities. In 2013 he was honored again, receiving the Outstanding Volunteer Award from the Town of Holden. For 68 years Gordon was also a member of the Holden Grange. It is rumored he held every leadership position at least once, including Grange Master.

For many years Gordon worked at Lilac Hedge Farm as a milkman. Each Christmas his customers would gift him cookies and sweets that made him the highlight of holiday celebrations with his nieces and nephews. In between harassing Gordon to see what treats he had brought, Gordon was a good sport, often allowing the kids to style his hair or helping them to assemble new toys brought by Santa.

In Gordon's free time, he enjoyed gardening, fishing, the Red Sox, naps, and playing practical jokes. He was generous with his time and had a big heart with room enough for everyone. Gordon was a loveable and kind soul who will be deeply missed by all those fortunate enough to have known him.

Gordon will be lovingly remembered by his sister, Barbara Joyce of Sandwich, MA, and his nieces, Rebecca Joyce of Walpole, MA, Jennifer Joyce of Forestdale, MA, Marion Szymanski of Franklin, MA and Cynthia White of Pueblo, CO. Gordon is survived by many great-nieces and great-nephews, good friends and fellow worshipers from the First Baptist Church of Holden. Gordon is predeceased by his brother, Robert White of Forestdale, MA, and nephews, Stephen White of Forestdale, MA and Jonathan White of E. Bridgewater, MA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the First Baptist Church of Holden, 1216 Main Street, Holden, MA 01520. Gordon's family would like to express our immense gratitude for the love and care shown to Gordon by his congregation over many, many years of fellowship.

Friends and family are kindly invited to celebrate Gordon's life at the First Baptist Church, 1216 Main St., Holden, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 11th. A private burial will occur at the Grove Cemetery in Holden, MA.

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