William Lonnie White

Mr. William Lonnie White, 79, of Gaston, South Carolina, died on Friday, May 30, 2026. Born in Columbia, South Carolina, on March 5, 1947, he was the son of the late William Gabriel White and Ada Lucile Henderson White.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Lonnie faithfully served his country before dedicating many years of his life to his work as a welder. He was a devoted member of Christian Fellowship Baptist Church and enjoyed an active life filled with fellowship, service, and adventure. He was a member of American Legion Post 90, the Romeo Riders, SC Patriot Guard Riders, ABATE CWC and HOGs (Harley Owners Group), where he enjoyed participating in charity rides and rides honoring Veterans. An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting, camping and took great pride in visiting every state park in South Carolina. Few things brought him more joy than riding his Harley-Davidson and making memories with family and friends along the way.

Lonnie is survived by his daughters, Christina L. Bernhagen (Freddie) of Gaston, Tisha W. Picciano (Peter) of North Charleston, and Doris M. Childress (Mark) of Greenville; grandchildren, Devin Bernhagen, Kori Bernhagen, Jack Childress, Talan Champ, Sarah Childress, Hannah Bernhagen, Heath Bernhagen, and Kaylie Champ. In addition, he leaves behind his special “daughter of the heart,” JoEllen Brazell (Wayne) of Gaston, “granddaughter of the heart”, Haley Brazell, and devoted companion, Connie Bennett, along with numerous extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents listed above; his beloved wife of 50 years, Andrea Delores Grooms White; and brother, Odie White.

The funeral service will be held at 12 o’clock Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Shives Funeral Home, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext. Columbia, SC. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 11 o’clock until 12 o’clock. Burial will follow the service in Elmwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in his honor to the American Cancer Society or American Legion Post 90.