Zelma Rita Veronica White

Zelma Rita Veronica White (nee Dickerson), 86, of Grapevine, Texas and Bossier City, Louisiana, went home to be with the Lord on January 20, 2024. Born on August 19, 1937, in Manhattan, New York to Leonard Dickerson & Gladys Wells (Battiste), Zelma was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend. She met the love of her life, Robert at the tender age of 15. They went on to enjoy 50 wonderful years of marriage until Robert’s passing in 2010. From that union, three children were born, Steven, Paul & Robin.

Zelma, known to her loved ones as "Mom" or “Zel,” was the epitome of love, strength, and nurturing. She was a homemaker and a career woman, always embracing challenges and never shying away from adventure. Zelma had a zest for life and a passion for traveling. Throughout her lifetime, she explored various parts of the world, including Germany, England, Bermuda, Aruba, Hawaii, and her ancestral home of St. Thomas. She particularly cherished her trips to Australia and New Zealand, where she fell in love with the adorable Koala bears.

Whether at home or on vacation, Zelma was always up for an adventure. She fearlessly rode scooters, jet skis, boats, and anything else that moved. Zelma had an adventurous palate and enjoyed trying different types of food. She had a saying that she would eat anything that did not eat her. In her earlier years, Zelma could even be found on the roof of her house, alongside her loved ones, watching fireworks!

Professionally, Zelma had a diverse career. She started as a preemie nurse, caring for delicate newborns. She later became a teacher, sharing her knowledge and passion with students. Zelma also held the position of Assistant Manager at Walmart, showcasing her dedication and work ethic.

Zelma leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She is survived by her sons, Steven and Paul, daughter Robin and son-in-law Steve, sister-friend Judy Moyer, nephew Ronnie, nieces Hunter, Meris, and Robbin, grandchildren Mackenzie, Randi (Lindsey), Ian, Chastity, Chante (Chris), great-grandchildren Eathain, Icyis, Amina, Avery, Phoenix, cousins Arsenia, Goldie, Nakia, Shanelle, and a host of other treasured family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert, mother Gladys Mercedes Wells, father Leonard Dickerson, stepfather Kenneth Wells, half-sister Lenora Dudley, granddaughter Maya Mercedes Reed, and daughter-in-law Keyla White.

A lifelong learner, Zelma received her education at Joan of Arc Primary School, George Washington High School, Foundling Nursing School (Diploma), and Antioch University(Bachelor of Arts in Education)--all in New York City. She was a woman of faith and found solace and salvation at Word of God Ministries. She was equally blessed by her previous membership at St. Michael's Catholic Church.

In her free time, Zelma enjoyed reading, crochet, and travel. These hobbies brought her joy and allowed her to unwind and explore her creativity.

The funeral arrangements for Zelma White are being handled by Forest Ridge Funeral Home in North Richland Hills, Texas. The family deeply appreciates the support and condolences during this difficult time.

Zelma Rita Veronica White will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her loving nature, adventurous spirit, and nurturing presence will forever be treasured. May she rest in eternal peace.