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John (Jack) White, 68, of Archbald, PA, passed away February 14, 2026.

Jack was born and raised in Carbondale, PA. He graduated from Fell/Carbondale Area High School and worked at ACME Super Saver. During those years, he frequented McDonnell’s restaurant, where he met a waitress who became the love of his life, Mindy (Rosemergey) White. They married in September 1978. One day in May of 1979, he came home from work and asked his wife, “What do you think about me joining the Army?” A life full of adventure ensued, stretching across mainland America and Hawaii to Guam, Thailand, Europe, and the Middle East, finally returning to the area to live after retirement.

A dedicated patriot, Jack served with distinction in the United States Army for over 20 years, specializing as a Morse Code Interceptor. Throughout a career defined by vigilance and technical mastery, Jack was stationed at several of the most critical hubs in the United States Intelligence Community, including Bad Aibling, Germany; Kunia, Hawaii; and Lackland AFB, Texas. Serving at the height of the Cold War, he stood a silent watch on the front lines of global signals intelligence, providing the early warning and critical data that safeguarded the nation during an era of unprecedented tension. This decades-long commitment was recognized with numerous decorations for achievement and merit from the National Security Agency (NSA), the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM), and the U.S. Army Military Intelligence Corps.

Following military retirement, Jack continued to serve the mission as a premier instructor of advanced signals intelligence, developing the next generation of military and civilian professionals. Known for a rare ability to bridge complex theory with operational reality, Jack became a vital asset to various specialized organizations, providing essential training and support to multiple special operations units globally. Beyond the accolades and technical expertise, Jack will be remembered by colleagues and fellow intelligence professionals alike as a mentor whose influence honed his peers’ capabilities and ensured the safety of those operating in the world’s most challenging environments.

Jack was curious about the world. He never met a stranger and often brought soldiers in need to his home, sharing dinner on a holiday when far from home, having his wife give a young soldier slow-dance lessons before a big date, or helping a single parent buy diapers. He often would greet a stranger by asking about their story and finding something in common to talk about. For those he knew well, he was often known to banter, spin a story, or exchange jokes, and, on a serious note, was someone others went to for advice and counsel. He met people where they were at, from all walks of life, without judgement.

Jack had a passion for golf. He learned to golf while stationed in Hawaii, and it became his favorite pastime. He could be found on a golf course anywhere he lived, making friends along the way. He loved teaching golf as well and giving golf tips to many, whether they wanted tips or not, always with a smile.

While he traveled the world and lived most of his life away from the area, he loved coming home to spend time with his family and friends and connecting back to his roots (and the local food). Jack also cherished being part of his wife Mindy’s family. He was thought of by many as the “special” uncle. He treasured his relationship with his nephew, Nick Cerra, his wife, Cindy, and their children, Sebastian, Ruby, and Poppy.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Nelson and Stella White; brother Joseph White and sisters; Rita Mason and Joy White.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Mindy; his siblings, Thomas White and wife Kathleen, Carol Tolerico, Neil White, and Amy White; many nieces, nephews, and their children.

The family would like to thank the care team at CMC Geisinger, most especially the palliative care physicians and the nursing staff.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to Hope for the Warriors (hopeforthewarriors.org).

The funeral and military honors will be Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 11:30 AM in the Joseph W. Scotchlas Funeral Home, Inc., 621 Main St., Simpson.  Interment will be in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Simpson.  Family and friends may visit at the funeral home on Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

For directions or condolences visit:  www.scotchlasfuneralhome.com