Grace Olivia White, age 22, of Gray, closed her eyes to this world for the final time and then opened them again in the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, July 19, 2026.
Born on August 6, 2003, in Johnson City, Tennessee, Grace was the vibrant, beloved youngest child of Norman and Amy White. From the very beginning, Grace was born ready to dance, and her life became a beautiful expression of movement, energy, and joy, which she shared generously through her passions for gymnastics, high school cheerleading, tumbling, and competitive dance and cheer. Grace also held a profound love for her beloved dog, Roxy, who brought constant companionship and immense joy to her life.
Deeply rooted in her faith, Grace was baptized by her grandfather, Dr. Norman White, Sr., at Embreeville Church of Christ and claimed the gift of salvation at the young age of ten when she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. She lived out that faith actively as a cherished member of Buffalo Ridge Baptist Church, and participated throughout her high school years in the Daniel Boone High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Truth Bible Club. Grace brought light, kindness, and an unstoppable joy to everyone who knew her. Her long-held faith turned into actual sight on Sunday as she stepped across the threshold of time into eternity. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now home, safely at peace, and dancing with eternal joy.
Grace’s bright spirit was matched by her remarkable intelligence. She was an accomplished member of the Beta Club and earned a prestigious place in the National Honor Society during high school. Her academic excellence continued throughout college, where she consistently secured her place on the Dean’s List.
Her profound heart for service to others shone brightly from a very young age. She possessed a deep desire to help people, aspiring specifically to care for children as a pediatric nurse. She spent years volunteering at local hospitals before channeling that same passion into her studies, beautifully completing three impactful years of Nursing School.
Her loving spirit lives on through her parents, Norman and Amy White; her brother, Noah White; her longtime boyfriend, Jake Cadogan; and her extended family, friends, and church members who loved her very dearly.
Service Information:
Visitation: The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Buffalo Ridge Baptist Church in Gray.
Celebration of Life: A Celebration of Life service will follow at 7:00 PM with the church ministry officiating.
Graveside Service: Graveside services will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Fairview Cemetery.
Funeral Procession: Those wishing to join the funeral procession are asked to meet at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home (418 W College Street, Jonesborough, TN) by 10:15 AM.
Flowers are welcome, or a memorial donation can be made to the Appalachian Humane Society in Johnson City, Tennessee.
Sending love and prayers
A sweet soul gone too soon
07/30/2026
Rheanna Hale
Our team is deeply sorry for your loss. We are thinking of your family.❤️
-Veterinary Medical Center
07/28/2026
Tonya Baker
Dear Norman and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are praying for your peace, comfort and healing at this most difficult time. Tonya, Joe, Jessie and Allie Baker
07/27/2026
Madi Foxen
I am so grateful to have spent over 8 years of friendship with Grace. She was literal sunshine. We shared so many memories, so many laughs, tears. Everyone called us the cheer besties. We were inseparable. She was the last person I’d ever expect I’d say goodbye to so early. I will miss and cherish her forever.
07/26/2026
Cathy Nguyen
The first time I ever met Grace, was during my first semester of nursing school. I was running late to pathophysiology and stressed out, but just as i reached to grab the door, Grace comes running behind me. From there, she and I always sat next to each other… I could tell we were going to be great friends. My first impression was how kind, beautiful, girly, and down to earth she was. Last semester we couldn’t have been more happier to have made it out of 4th semester and then finally have all our clinicals and classes together because they separated our cohorts after the 2nd semester. I admired how well she talked to kids, and I could truly tell she was going to be the best pediatrics nurse. I found it crazy how she would study a bit and ace her exams. She was so smart. I don’t think I could’ve made it this far into nursing school without her. She’s the one I could text if I had a question about something. She’s the one I would want to immediately tell my exam score to. She was the best friend I’ve never had, and I wish I told her how much she truly meant to me. I felt like I was able to be my whole self around her. She was truly one of a kind and I am thankful to have my memories with her. I’m praying for your family and friends during this time. ❤️
07/25/2026
DeeDee HERBERT
Grace was always the sweetest child. Her smile was contagious and her heart was so loving. Your family is in my prayers. God bless each of you.
07/25/2026
Victoria D. Hood-Wells, PhD, MSN, RN ETSU Sevierville
I did not know Grace. However, I wish to send my deepest condolences to the family during this difficult time. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
07/24/2026
Sarah Wilson
I had the honor of being Gracie Poo 4th grade teacher. She was truly the kindness young lady with a gentle spirit that was Christ centered. I loved watching her dance. Praying for her family and I am so grateful that we have a Savior who promises He has prepared a place for us! Until we meet again, all my love ❤️
07/24/2026
Summer Gilman
I worked with Grace while she was at talkback and along the way we became friends. Hanging out a few times outside of work I truly got to see what a beautiful light Grace was in this world. She will be missed.
07/24/2026
Vicky Tipton
I met Gracie when she was 2 years old. She was absolutely precious! I remember how she would toddle up to the little dog that I had at the time, and the only time that dog was ever calm is when he would see little Gracie. He loved her! I quickly learned that Gracie was easy, easy to love. She was not only physically beautiful but she was SO KIND inside too. She was always so sweet to me and my husband when we would see her. She will be missed but we will look forward to seeing her again One Fine Day.
07/24/2026
Rob, Lynn, and Masie Honeycutt
We will always remember Grace for her sweet personality and amazing talents on the dance floor. Our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers go out to you with love.
07/24/2026
Linda Souder
Norman, I did not know your beautiful daughter, but I just want to let you know that I am very sorry for your loss. May God wrap you in his loving arms and comfort you.
