Dottie Irene White, 57, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family at 9 p.m. Friday, January 23, 2026.
Dottie was born January 15, 1969, in Knox County, the daughter of Gary Lee and Sharon E. (Roberts) Denniston.
Dottie is survived by her husband of over 20 years, Rodney Ray White, whom she married on May 26, 2012. Dottie became a mother to Rodney’s three children the day they were married: Tanner (Jessica Havelock) White of Wataga, Illinois, Megan (Cody Brechbuhler) Burns of Galesburg, and Jadin White of Wataga. Dottie is also survived by her mother, Sharon Kinzer of Galesburg; her two beloved granddaughters, Lorenza Burns and Taylir Trulson, and grandson, Jace Line; as well as two brothers, Duane (Donna) Denniston of St. Petersburg Beach, Florida, and Eric (Candi) Denniston of Galesburg; and one sister, Hydee Denniston.
Dottie is preceded in death by her father; her mother- and father-in-law, Karen and Marvin White; and her godmother, Dottie Lee Selfridge.
In her early years, Dottie lived in Victoria. She worked in healthcare for most of her life as a CNA and rehabilitation aide. This was her life mission and what she was born to do. Dottie was an amazing caregiver and loved by so many. Dottie loved to be outdoors gardening, spending time at the beach by the ocean, as well as spending time at the river.
Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to the Knox County Humane Society. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
