09/24/2025                                                                            
                                    
                                                                            
                                            Sherrard Emanuel White
It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce Sherrard E. (Shep) White, 77, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, peacefully passed away on September 24, 2025, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. He passed away at home on his beloved White House Farm, surrounded by his loving family.
Sherrard was born in Atlanta, GA, on May 24, 1948, to Rachel R. White and the late Roy C. (Jack) White. Raised in the Klondike community of Lithonia, GA, he graduated from Lithonia High School in 1966. Following high school, he enlisted in the Marine Corps, where he honorably served two tours in Vietnam, embodying the values of courage and commitment.
Upon returning from the military, Sherrard resumed his career with the City of Decatur Fire Department, starting as a firefighter. Through dedication and hard work, he climbed the ranks to become Chief, eventually retiring after 35 years as Director of Public Safety. His professional journey saw him engage deeply with many organizations including the Georgia Firemen Association, DeKalb Police Chiefs, and the International Police Chief Association, contributing significantly to public safety in his community.
A passionate automotive enthusiast, Sherrard was a founding member of the American Street Rodders. He cherished moments spent with fellow Street Rodder friends, proudly showcasing his 1934 Canary Yellow Ford, affectionately nicknamed “Tweety.” His love for cars was only matched by his commitment to service; as a steadfast member of the Marine Corps League in Athens, he lived by the mantra “Once a Marine, always a Marine.”
Sherrard's life was also marked by his deep faith. He loved worshiping and serving the Lord with his church family at Blacks Creek Baptist Church, where his spirit and dedication were felt by many.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Brenda Hulsey White, and their daughters, Amy Staud and Kimberly Sauls (Josh). His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Brittany Staud, A.J. Staud (Hailey), Bailey Hill (Steve, Jr.), Leland Sauls, and Kaleigh Sauls, as well as his great grandchildren: Olivia Staud, Trey Hill, Zander, and Zoey Staud. He is also survived by his sister, Sheila White; brother-in-law, Charles Hulsey; and aunts Martha Mann and Connie Potts, along with many cousins.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Ivie Funeral Home Chapel, located at 1053 S. Elm Street, Commerce, GA, with Rev. Chad Rising officiating. Burial will follow at Blacks Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12 PM until the funeral hour at the funeral home.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Agapa Hospice Care Team, especially Jessica, Aimee, and Yvonne, for their loving care during this challenging time. Sherrard E. White will be profoundly missed, yet his spirit and contributions will be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.                                        
                                    
                                                                        
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