Garland Francis White III, 82, passed away in the early hours of Monday, April 17^th, 2023 peacefully in his home after having been placed on hospice care approximately 2 weeks prior.  He remained in good spirits even in his final days.  He was able to say goodbye to his sons in the days prior to his passing.  Garland was born on February 24^th, 1941 to Pauline and Garland White II in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.  He received his Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University in 1963 and his PhD in Sociology from the University of Washington in 1970.

After graduating, Garland settled down in Norfolk, Va.  He had three children – Garland IV, Nicole, and Casey.  He devoted decades of his life to teaching and inspiring students as a tenured professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Old Dominion University, where he was highly regarded for his individual attention to his students, his approachability, his intentionality, and his goofy sense of humor.  He was passionate about advocating for animal rights and spent spare time volunteering at the Virginia Beach SPCA, from which he adopted three dogs.  He cared for his friends and loved ones deeply, and treated them with selflessness, generosity and boundless compassion.

Garland was predeceased by his father, Garland II, and his daughter, Nicole.  Left to cherish his memory are his mother Pauline; his sister Kerry; his two sons Garland IV and Casey; his niece Taylor and nephew Adam; his four grandchildren Gracie, Benjamin, Samuel, and Daniel; his grandnephew Jude and grandniece Shiloh; and a host of loving colleagues on whom he made a lasting impact.

Plans for a service will be announced when made.  His sons intend to spread his ashes this summer in the Rocky Mountains per his wishes.  In lieu of flowers, please visit https://vbspca.com/honors-and-memorials/ to make contributions to the Virginia Beach SPCA in Garland’s honor.