William Earl White, 76, of Hemphill, passed away on January 31, 2026 at his residence. Born on March 23, 1949, in Hemphill, to William Curtis White and Freddie Raker Miller White, Earl was a lifelong resident of Sabine County and a cherished member of the community.

Earl graduated from West Sabine High School and dedicated many years of his career to Temple-Inland until he retired. He worked in the Forestry Division and later as a chip mill operator. Earl was skilled in operating a variety of heavy machinery, which was a testament to his hardworking and capable nature.

Known for his vibrant personality, Earl never met a stranger. He was a master storyteller who loved reminiscing about the old times. His mischievous spirit and love for pranks made him a beloved figure with his friends, family and the neighborhood children who affectionately called him Papaw. Earl was also an avid hunter and fisherman, passions that he enjoyed throughout his life.

Earl was preceded in death by his loving wife of 44 years, Mary Ann Brown White; his parents, Curtis and Freddie White; and his siblings, Bobby Glen White, Johnnie Sue Philips, and his twin brother, Curtis Burl White. He is survived by his daughters, Tammy DuBose and Sam, Trina Helmer and husband, James, and Tonya Brodie and husband, Kenneth; grandchildren, J.C., Riley and Rayne, Nason and Lyndsey, Hannah and Anthony, Madison and Brayden, Tuff and Savanna White, Colton and Kennedy White, and Tuck Brodie; and nine greatgrandchildren with two more on the way.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Starr Funeral Home, 510 Starr Street in Hemphill.

Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, in Starr Funeral Home Chapel, with Bro. Tracy Lane officiating.

Burial will follow at Plainview Cemetery. Pallbearers will be J.C. Helmer, Riley Helmer, Nason Helmer, Tuff White, Colton White, and Anthony Ridley, with Tuck Brodie serving as honorary pallbearer.

Starr Funeral Home in Hemphill, Texas is assisting the family with the arrangements. Earl’s life and legacy will be remembered fondly by all who knew him, and his stories and laughter will echo in the hearts of his loved ones forever.

Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome. com.