Irene Renee White

Irene Renee White, age 96, passed away on September 5, 2026. She was born on June 24, 1930, to Eugene and Enola Buford.

In 1942, at the age of 12, Irene and her family moved from Abbeville, Louisiana, to Port Arthur, Texas. At the age of 17, she met and married Johnny White on September 20, 1947. Their family grew with the birth of their daughter, Sandra Lynn White, on October 16, 1948, followed by their son, Hal White, on August 4, 1950.

Irene spent most of her life in Nederland and Beaumont, Texas. She was a longtime member of North End Baptist Church, where she remained a member until she was no longer able to attend. A born-again believer, Irene's faith was at the center of her life and something she eagerly shared with others.

Spunky and fiercely independent, Irene never considered anyone a stranger. Her encounters with others often centered around one important question: “Do you know Jesus?” She enjoyed visiting with people and handing out embroidered crosses to those she met, always returning home proud to share stories of her encounters.

Irene also had a great love for the outdoors and anything that grew. Her green thumb and talent for planting were well known among her family and friends. When there was a question about a plant, flower, or anything growing, Irene was the family consultant and usually had the answer.

Above all, Irene held a special place within her family. To those who loved her most, she was simply “GRAMS,” a name that carried countless memories and a legacy that will continue through the generations of her family.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Enola Buford; siblings, Clarence Buford, Elijah Buford, Janice Buford, and Willard Buford; and great-grandson, Colten Davis.

She is survived by her daughter, Sandie Mueller and husband Michael; son, Hal White and wife Linda; five grandchildren, An'drea Boren and husband Michael, Angie Peveto and husband Herbie, Heather Schluterman and husband Josh, Bart Taylor White and wife Stephanie, and Alyson Kirchner; five great-grandchildren, Jacey Paige, Matthew Schluterman, Hunter Boren, Madison Schluterman, and Remington White; and one great-great-grandchild, Emery Paige.

Serving as honorary pallbearer will be Hunter Boren, Matthew Schluteman, Remington White, Hal White, Michael Mueller, Herbie Peveto.

A Celebration of Life honoring Irene will be held later in September, with family gathering to remember her life. She will be laid to rest at Burkeville Cemetery in Burkeville, Texas.

Irene will be remembered for her strong faith, independent spirit, love of the outdoors, and her willingness to share the love of Jesus with everyone she encountered. Most of all, she will be lovingly remembered as GRAMS.

Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, Texas 77833, 979-836-3611. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com.