Tribute to Leah White

On Wednesday, December 29, 2021, as most of us were enjoying our last days of holiday break, Mrs. Leah Alexandra White passed away in tranquility with her family nearby. Mrs. White was born in Seattle, Washington on December 8, 1966 and worked as a teaching assistant at Van Antwerp Middle School and Niskayuna High School for 23 years. Throughout her years in Niskayuna, she worked with students with disabilities and according to her family, the highlight of working at Niskayuna was being able to catch sight of and interact with her own children as they bump into each other in the hallways.

Mrs. White was not only a teaching assistant, but was also an avid rower and traveler. For over 20 years, she held positions as an USRowing referee and an USRowing Regional Referee Coordinator, officiating regattas all over the country such as the 2010 Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA) National Men’s Championships, and diligently acting as a mentor to many new referees. Along with rowing, Mrs. White took delight in traveling with her family and she absolutely loved the peace and joy that the water gave her, whether it was having fun at the beach, taking a walk on the shore, admiring the horizon, or staying active in rowing. Amongst her many hobbies, Mrs. White was able to expand her creative nature through quilting and crafting. She took great pleasure in forging her own ornamental household objects— such as homemade heat packs— and gifting them to friends and family, or even neighbors. She also had a passion for baking and cooking, always making sure to go above and beyond during family gatherings and other events.

On Tuesday, January 25, Niskayuna High School staff and students pulled out their fun socks, shoes, hats, and anything pink to pay a tribute to the loving and passionate Mrs. White. Many staff members created mini posters showcasing her favorite items, such as snowmen, and pictures of her. Just as she was a teaching assistant, she was also a fun mom, wife, and grandmother to her husband, two children, and a granddaughter whom she cherished greatly. Mrs. White had a way of making people feel welcomed and was a very giving person, always offering her best and showing hospitality to the people around her. Mrs. White’s energy was unparalleled, and her passion for even the smallest details in life will be remembered by those who had the fortunate opportunity to know her.

Leah Alexander White recommending a book to students at the High School

Photo Credits: Niskayuna High School Staff