February 13, 1951 – December 20, 2024
KILL DEVIL HILLS — It is with heavy hearts that the family of Arthur Leighton White announces his passing at age 73 in his Kill Devil Hills, NC home on Friday, December 20, 2024. After a long battle with chronic illness, he passed in peace, at home surrounded by family. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandpop, son, and brother. Leighton was born to the late Robert White, Sr. and Thelma Viola Slingerland White on February 13, 1951. Born at Montgomery County Hospital, he was raised in Clarksville, Maryland, in Howard County, and graduated from Glenelg High School.
Leighton was the beloved husband of Laurie Walton White. He is also survived by “his girls,” his two daughters. Daughter, Jessica Ann-White Davenport (Herbert Conrade) and grandchildren Herbert Colby Davenport, Arthur Landen Davenport, and Joanna Rose Davenport; and daughter, Amy Lee White. He was a dedicated “girl dad” whose family brought immense joy and love to his life. Also, surviving is Anna White, his sister; Robert White, Jr., Christian White, and Alexander White, brothers, and a host of nieces, nephews, loved ones, and family friends. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Louis Piron, George Perry Richardson, and John White.
Leighton spent summers of his youth on the Outer Banks and later made it his home with his wife, Laurie, and his young family. He delighted in fishing, gardening, vacationing with his girls, and playing his guitar. Most of all, he loved being surrounded by his family and friends. He had many rewarding jobs to support his family, but the most fulfilling was that of a self-employed landscaper and home renovationist. Basically, if something needed to be done, he could do it. When you think of him you picture his smile, his laughter, his quick wit, and dad humor. He never met a stranger, and his warm personality always made you feel like you were in the presence of a friend.
Leighton was a hardworking, dedicated family man and father. He cherished his time with his brothers, sister, and extended family. Most of all, he loved time with his wife of 51 years. It was a life well lived with many memories made, filled with laughter and love, and he will be very missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Dare County Dialysis Center and the Colington and Dare County EMS for their care of our beloved husband, father, and grandpop over the past few years.
A funeral service to celebrate Leighton’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Bethany Church of Wanchese. A graveside committal service will immediately follow at Manteo Cemetery. Prior to the service, the family welcomes friends and relatives for a visitation and a time to gather and share memories from 12:00 until 2:00 pm at the church.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
