Obituary of Theodora Frances White

May 4, 1922 – Freetown, Sierra Leone

July 18, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Theodora “Dora” White of Calgary, AB beloved wife of the late Cyril George White, passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at the age of 102 years.

Dora was born in Freetown, Sierra Leone, West Africa on May 4, 1922. She immigrated to Canada in 1987 to join her daughter and family. Dora was an active member of several organizations in both Calgary and Freetown. These include Kerby Centre, Golden Age Club, and was a member of St. Bernadette’s Ladies Auxiliary. In Canada, she worked at Kingsmere Daycare Centre. Up to her death, she was in touch with children she cared for who are now adults.

Dora enjoyed volunteering and was always willing to help new immigrants to Canada. Dora was a worldwide traveller, who enjoyed visiting different countries, her travels took her to Cuba, Mexico, Rome, Uganda, and Egypt. At her church she was a reader at Masses at both Holy Spirit and Sacred Heart Churches.

Dora’s favourite saying was, “Count your life by smiles, not tears. Count your age by friends, not years.”

Dora is survived by her son-in-law Charles Pratt, four grandchildren, Valerie (David), Vanessa (John), Cyril (Tavia), and Rogerline (Matt); and three great-grandchildren, Tatiana (Julio), Rayff, and Braden. Dora was predeceased by her daughter Enid Pratt and brother Nick Sawyerr.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church (1307 – 14th Street S.W., Calgary, AB) on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Graveside Service to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mrs. White’s service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

The Pratt family would like to thank all the nurses, doctors and support staff who were instrumental in keeping Dora comfortable during the last stages of her life.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Dora’s name may be made directly to the Kerby Centre https://unisonalberta.com/donation-online?tab=kerby_centre.  

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Dora’s family here.

In living memory of Dora White, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

Click Here to Sign the Video Guest Book and Watch Dora's Funeral Mass