GRAY, Tenn. – July 24, 2026 – The Johnson City and Gray communities are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Olivia Grace White, known to family and friends as Grace, who passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the age of 22 . Her death has left family, friends, classmates, and her church family grieving the loss of a remarkable young woman whose life was marked by unwavering faith, academic excellence, and a heartfelt desire to serve others .
Born on August 6, 2003, in Johnson City, Tennessee, Grace was the cherished youngest child of Norman and Amy White . From an early age, she displayed a joyful spirit, compassionate heart, and determination that inspired everyone around her. Those who knew her remember a young woman whose kindness and genuine care for others reflected the values she embraced throughout her life .
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A Life Rooted in Faith
Faith played a central role in Grace’s journey. Baptized by her grandfather, Dr. Norman White Sr., at Embreeville Church of Christ, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior at the age of 10 . As a devoted member of Buffalo Ridge Baptist Church in Gray, Grace remained active in her congregation throughout her life .
Buffalo Ridge Baptist Church holds special significance in the Gray community. Established in 1779, it is recognized as the oldest Baptist church in Tennessee, with a history stretching back 247 years . The church’s congregation has been a cornerstone of the community since its founding by pastor Tidence Lane, just three years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence .
During her years at Daniel Boone High School, Grace participated in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Truth Bible Club, encouraging classmates through her Christian witness . Those who knew her described how she “brought light, kindness, and an unstoppable joy to everyone who knew her” .
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A Gift for Movement and Expression
Grace’s bright spirit was matched by her love of dance and movement. Her family noted that “from the very beginning, Grace was born ready to dance, and her life became a beautiful expression of movement, energy, and joy” . She shared this passion generously through gymnastics, high school cheerleading, tumbling, and competitive dance and cheer .
Through these activities, Grace formed lasting friendships and demonstrated the dedication, teamwork, and discipline that would serve her throughout her life. She also treasured her beloved dog, Roxy, who brought constant companionship and immense joy to her life .
Academic Excellence and a Calling to Serve
Academically gifted, Grace was a member of the Beta Club and earned a place in the National Honor Society during her time at Daniel Boone High School . Her academic excellence continued throughout college, where she consistently earned Dean’s List honors .
Grace pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a pediatric nurse, completing three impactful years of nursing school . Her “profound heart for service to others shone brightly from a very young age” . She spent years volunteering at local hospitals, compassionately serving patients and families while preparing for her future career in pediatric nursing.
Survived by a Loving Family
Grace is survived by her loving parents, Norman and Amy White; her brother, Noah White; her longtime boyfriend, Jake Cadogan; and numerous extended family members, friends, classmates, and church members who will forever cherish her memory .
Her family takes comfort in knowing she is “now home, safely at peace, and dancing with eternal joy” .
Service Information
The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Buffalo Ridge Baptist Church in Gray. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 7:00 PM with the church ministry officiating .
Graveside services will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Fairview Cemetery in Jonesborough . Those wishing to join the funeral procession are asked to meet at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home (418 W College Street, Jonesborough, TN) by 10:15 AM .
A Legacy of Love
Though Grace’s life ended far too soon, her legacy of faith, kindness, service, and compassion will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her family has requested that flowers be welcome, or memorial donations can be made to the Appalachian Humane Society in Johnson City, Tennessee, in her memory .
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