In Memoriam

James Alfred White (1939-2024)

One of the key founding members of the White Schneider family has unfortunately passed away. Jim White was simply one of the most pleasurable people to be around. Known for his quick wit, beaming smile, and gentle spirit, he was a mentor to many, both professionally and in life. His presence will be missed in many circles.

A proud graduate of Alma College, Jim earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, cum laude. He obtained his law degree from the University of Michigan Law School and began his legal career in 1964, spending almost 25 years working in private practice before he and other co-workers left to found the genesis of our Firm in 1988. Jim obtained Emeritus status with the State Bar of Michigan in 2021 upon retiring after his tremendous career.

Over the course of that long and distinguished career, Jim made a significant impact on the lives of Michigan educators, farmers, and laborers. For more than 50 years, he fought for the interests of individuals in the public sector and the agricultural industry before government agencies, in the courtroom, and on appeal.

Our Firm has continued a close relationship with the Michigan Education Association, due in large part to Jim’s representation of the MEA and its members, which include K-12 teachers, as well as college faculty, public school custodians, bus drivers, and paraprofessionals.

Jim’s efforts on behalf of Michigan’s farmers led him to the U.S. Supreme Court, where in 1984 he successfully argued that the Michigan Agricultural Marketing & Bargaining Act was preempted by federal law. Success at that level has been achieved by very few in the legal community.

Throughout his life, Jim was a world traveler, accomplished sailor, and licensed pilot. He visited all seven continents including trips to Africa and Antarctica after the age of 65. He volunteered on a number of Habitat for Humanity Global Village projects including his first project where he met his loving wife, Martha, in Kathmandu, Nepal. Jim and Martha served as members of Habitat teams building affordable homes for families in such far-off places as Nepal, Kenya, Cambodia, Alaska, Kyrgyzstan, and Indonesia.

He was loved by all, and his spirit will live on in the mission of our Firm.