JACKSONVILLE  -  Maria White was a friend to all. To know her was an honor; to be loved by her, a blessing. Maria was known to friends and family as a sparkling fireball of energy, a steadfast crusader against injustice, and a tireless caretaker of humankind.

There was no end to Maria's talents and accomplishments. She held a master's degree, was a championship Badminton player, and she could tell you what to do and how to do it in three different languages!

The majority of Maria's professional life was spent in hospitality and human resources (the perfect careers for such a people-person), and she dedicated much of her personal life to helping people in every way that she could.  She wouldn't think twice before giving you the shirt off her back, the shoes off her feet, or a heaping plate of her famous egg rolls and pancit (she was a culinary MacGyver). Maria's welcoming nature and strong sense of community ensured that no one ever felt lonely, sad, or hungry in her presence.

Maria was born to Ruben Concepcion Cruz and Consuelo Lazo Apostol in Manila, Philippines. She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Gene White of Jacksonville, North Carolina; daughter, Christina Mosser Young, and her husband, Steve Young of Jacksonville, North Carolina; daughter, Theresa Davila of Sydney, Australia; three grandchildren, Ryan, Nando, and Therese; three great-grandchildren, Raine, Thalia, and Miles; brother, Ruben Cruz, Jr.; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews all over the world.

May Maria rest in peace, knowing the full extent of her tremendously positive impact on all around her.

A memorial mass will be held Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 1:30 pm EST at Infant of Prague Catholic Church, located at 210 Marine Boulevard, Jacksonville, NC 28540. The mass will be followed by Maria's interment in the Infant of Prague Columbarium located behind the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital would be greatly appreciated