Barbara White Donation Page

Barbara Ann White, 83, of Portage, passed away peacefully at 3:55 p.m., Monday, November 25, 2024 at Avalon Spring Health Campus in Valparaiso.

Barbara Ann White ("Barb" to those lucky enough to know her) was a force of nature wrapped in grace, grit, and a heart as big as her beloved Arizona skies. Barb's remarkable journey ended November 25, 2024, leaving a legacy of love, laughter, and a better community for all who crossed her path.

She was born July 10, 1941, in Gary, the daughter of James and Gladys (Winfrey) Colvey.

Barb began her trailblazing career in real estate during the economic downturn of 1980, turning a local recession into a reason to rise. With unwavering determination, she built her company into the largest-producing office in Portage, Indiana, where her ambition matched her deep commitment to her community.

Her leadership extended beyond her business. Named Outstanding Public Citizen by the Portage Chamber of Commerce, Barb's achievements included raising funds to provide bulletproof vests for all 40 officers of the Portage Police Department and spearheading a $250,000 scholarship endowment for Portage High School students. Her service earned her countless accolades, including Indiana's prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash award and the keys to the City of Portage.

For over 30 years, Barb shared her passion for music as the director of her church's senior choir, junior choirs, and various singing groups. Her love for harmony extended into her community, where she created a citywide choir that graced local events with joyful song. Even in retirement, Barb kept her melody alive by performing Southern gospel music at fundraisers for causes close to her heart, from local food banks to children's charities.

Barb's warmth wasn't just in her public works—it was in the little things. She delighted in sewing matching outfits for her children, diving into crafts, and oil painting her favorite landscapes. Antiquing adventures with her beloved Fred brought her joy, as did traveling to her cherished Arizona, where the desert seemed to echo her own vibrant spirit.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Kelly J. White; and her son-in-law, Jim Fitzer.

Barb was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Fred White; and her children, Kevin and Kim White.

Barb often said that "giving back" was her greatest joy—and she lived it fully. Her legacy of generosity, leadership, and kindness will be cherished by the many lives she touched. Her family, friends, and community bid farewell with grateful hearts, holding onto the lessons she left behind: love fiercely, serve selflessly, and always give back.