Ernest Dwaine White, 75, of Litchfield, died peacefully the afternoon of Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, at HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, surrounded by the love of his family.
Funeral services for Mr. White will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Oct. 10, at Plummer Funeral Home in Litchfield with Pastor Jay Hurd officiating. Burial will follow in Sunnyside Cemetery in Sorento. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, at the funeral home.
In true Mr. White fashion, his family invites everyone to come as they are and be comfortable. Guests may wear their favorite Chicago Cubs attire or any comfortable clothing that represents the things Mr. White loved. Formal attire is not required.
Mr. White was born in South Carolina to Ernest Lewis and Shirley Jean (Ferrari) White. On Nov. 28, 1970, he married the love of his life, Janet Rose Reitz, at Calvary Baptist Church in Hillsboro. Together, they built a beautiful life and shared nearly 56 years of marriage, creating a lifetime of memories that will forever be treasured by their family.
He was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Local 725. He was also a business partner with Dennis Ronen, doing business as W and R Concrete. He was a longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church.
A hardworking man with a big heart, Mr. White found some of his greatest happiness in the simple things in life. He loved spending time outdoors, taking trips to the river, fishing, duck hunting and tending to his garden. He could often be found tinkering away in his garage, working on one project or another, with his beloved dog, Miller, never too far away. He was also a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears and Cubs, and he never missed an opportunity to cheer them on.
But more than anything, he loved his family and friends. He had a way of making people feel welcome, and his stories—often told with plenty of laughter and personality—could keep everyone gathered around listening. Whether he was spending time with his family, sharing a story, working around the house, or simply enjoying the company of Miller by his side, he found joy in being surrounded by the people and things he loved most. His presence brought warmth and laughter to those around him, and the memories he created with the people he loved will be cherished for generations to come.
Mr. White is survived by his beloved wife, Janet R. White of Litchfield; his children, Ernest “Todd” (Jessica) White, Daniel White, Anthony (Sally) White, and Crystal (Michael) Helfers, all of Litchfield; his grandchildren, Heather (Brian) Honchak, Logan White, Lauren White, Lillian White, Haley Burch, Gavin Burch, Sophia Forbis, Gracie White, Shelby (Hunter) Campbell, Ava White, Kayla Starr, Abby (Peyton) Sisson, and Jade Wey; his great-grandchildren, Leila Campbell, Charlotte Honchak, Jude Honchak, McKenna Gerl, Hadley Hauter, and Clayton Hauter; his great-great-grandchild, Arrow Moore; his brother, Kelly (Lisa) White of Litchfield; his sisters, Peggy Himstedt of Litchfield, Tammy (Stephen) Mowry of Harrison, AR, Sabina (Michael) Roach of O’Fallon and Marijane (Michael) Zimmerman of Birmingham, AL; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest L. White and Shirley J. Ernst; his brother, Gary L. White; and two grandchildren, Kristine Hauter and Matthew Hull.
Memorials may be directed to the Montgomery County Cancer Association, 106 Pinnacle Point Drive, Hillsboro, IL 62049.
Plummer Funeral Home is assisting the family. To leave online condolences, visit www.plummerfuneralservices.com
