Mary Frank White

Mary Frank McGee White passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 22, 2024 at her home with her son and daughter by her side. Mary Frank was born on September 23, 1928, to the late  Frank and Mary Evelyn Melton McGee of Pheba, Mississippi. After graduating from high school there, she attended Wood Junior College in Mathiston and Delta State in Cleveland, MS. She married JC White, also from Pheba, and after three years there he took a job with the State Extension Service, and they moved to Kosciusko for one year before being transferred to Drew, MS. Within a few years they saw an opportunity to reopen a drugstore that had been closed for a year due to the death of the owner, and both worked tirelessly side by side, facilitating the prosperous growth of White’s Drug Store. Some years later the building next door became available, which they purchased and renovated, and a new business was started: The White House, a men’s and women’s clothing store, which she operated with glee and enthusiasm every day, while JC took care of the drugstore. Immediately after his sudden death, she sold the drugstore, but continued with the White House. Some years later she married Billy Wise, and they enjoyed a quarter of a century together, traveling to Memphis once a month for ballroom dancing, followed by a night at the casino, as well as going to many musical performances around the Delta. Since she had closed the clothing store, she had much time on her hands and lots of energy. She and Billy worked tirelessly renovating deserted buildings downtown, trying valiantly to attract businesses to revive the little town and get its heartbeat going again, ever the eternal optimist. She is survived by her son Robert White (Brenda) Columbus, MS, daughter Rebecca (Dr Billy Hood) of Oxford, MS, grandsons Abe White and Blake Hood, granddaughters Kala Wilson and Bayley Clayton, and five great grandchildren, her younger brother Buddy McGee and his two daughters Linda and Evelyn, all of Pheba, her sister in law Ruth Lee of Tupelo, and her husband Billy Wise. A very special thanks to Gentiva Hospice’s wonderful caregivers Leigh Ann and Jasmine, truly angels who walk among us. A private family service will be held at a later date. Robinson Funeral Home of West Point is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Good Samaritan Medical Clinic (520 College St, Columbus, MS 39701) or charity of donor’s choice.