Montford "Monty" Bailey White

Montford “Monty” Bailey White passed peacefully at his home on June 24, 2026, surrounded by family and friends, at the age of 87.

As a son, husband, father, Papa, uncle, and friend, Monty was a man who touched countless lives and leaves behind a world made better because of the life he lived and the legacy he created. His life was defined by a strong faith in God, an unwavering love for his wife, and a steadfast devotion to his children and grandchildren.

Monty dedicated much of his life to serving others, especially young people. He coached Little League baseball and spent many years volunteering with Scouting as an Assistant Scoutmaster, mentoring countless boys as they grew into young men. Through Scouting, he was actively involved in the Order of the Arrow, completed Wood Badge training, and faithfully served as a Lone Scout leader, helping young men in isolated areas who did not have access to organized troops.

A proud member of Ethel High School’s Class of 1956, Monty joined the United States Army following graduation. After completing both basic and advanced training, he served as a Morse Code Intercept Operator with the U.S. Army Security Agency. Most of his military service was spent stationed on Shemya Island, Alaska.

Monty built a long and successful professional career, retiring from Shell Oil Company after 37 years of service, where he spent the majority of his career working in Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance. Following retirement, he continued working for Pursue Energy Corporation for another 10 years.

After his time in the Army, Monty married the love of his life, Mary Carol Steed. Together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage before Carol’s passing in June 2017, building a life centered on faith, family, and unwavering commitment to one another.

Monty is survived by his two children, Julia White Doucette and her husband, Mark Doucette, and Kirby White and his wife, Shelley White. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Bailey White and Marie Elise White, as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Carol Steed White; his parents, Hugh and Bessie White; his brother, Willis White; and his sisters, Hugh Ella Turner, Jimmie Milling, and Carol Cowan.

With grateful hearts, the family thanks his caregiver of the last six months, Renada Dixon, for the love, compassion, and faithful care she gave him. Her kindness became a true blessing to him and to our family.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 3rd, at Jordan Funeral Home in Kosciusko, Mississippi. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m., with Dr. Raymon Leake officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Stonewall Cemetary.