Cornerstones remembers our dear friend and colleague Greg White – who served for 14 years
at Cornerstones as our Chief Operating Officer.
Message from Cornerstones CEO Kerrie Wilson
“Greg was such an important part of the life of everyone he touched, and the organizations, initiatives and people he served, and served with.
The memories and notes about his impact are already flooding in, with one former board chair sharing she would not ever forget ‘his gentle and clear direction on how to be a true servant. He taught me to think differently and reflect more intentionally, if I wanted to be truly helpful.’
Some have heard Greg’s story of his struggle with homelessness after college graduation, working as a day laborer, sleeping in an old Ford Maverick and cleaning up in public restrooms. His experience was one that profoundly influenced the kind of organization and programs he would shape and lead here at Cornerstones and throughout his career.
Greg joined Cornerstones in 2008. As our Chief Operating Officer he truly was our North star and guide for what transformative human services and social justice should be. The values he shaped for our work and that he cited often was ‘Collaborative Innovation’ – pushing us to do better and in partnership with community and each other, and commending us to move beyond service and demand justice. And that we must do.
For those that worked with Greg over the years, I don’t have to tell you how he showed up as a colleague, mentor, coach, partner or friend. He always listened and generously and patiently shared his wisdom and heart to ensure we made the right decisions or took the right action. And his wit! – that wicked sense of humor that always helped take the tension out of a tough situation and remind us to have fun and find joy in our lives and work, or (in my case) not take myself too seriously.
Greg fought so hard through his illness and thanks to a wonderful donor family who saved his life, had three more years with his beloved wife, Dr. Charla White, and sons Arian and Armon of whom he was so proud. Our Cornerstones and Fairfax County communities cherished this extended time with him. His sudden, unexpected death brings such sorrow.
Greg’s family is planning a celebration of his life next week. Below is the invitation and details. Greg always said he would not want a fuss when he died – he would prefer to be quietly remembered in ways that are special to each of you. For me, I will miss our special greetings for one another (he was ‘boss’ I was ‘Jefe’) and the opportunity to work in partnership with a lifelong friend and brother.
Greg was one of a kind. You rest now. We’ll pick up your charge.”
CELEBRATING
the wonderful life of
Greg White
PLEASE JOIN FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND COLLEAGUES TO SHARE OUR BEST MEMORIES
ABOUT GREG’S EXTRAORDINARY FRIENDSHIP AND SERVICE IN OUR COMMUNITY.
Wednesday, June 22, 2022
4:00 – 6:00pm
Reston Community Center
2310 Colts Neck Road in Reston