Richard Lee White

Richard Lee White, age 82, passed away (July 13, 2026, in St. Augustine, FL. Through his journey of 82 years, he touched many lives with his wisdom, wit, humor, and an unwavering spirit of perseverance. He was born June 14, 1944, in St. Augustine, FL, with his twin brother, the late Robert White, and his parents, the late Robert and Rosalie (Lamb) White. Among the many milestones of his well-lived life, Richard marked the year 1986 with immense pride. He became the proud owner of the first Black Jazz Supper Club in St Augustine, FL, named “Richard’s.” This achievement is but one example that highlights his ability to inspire others to achieve goals. He graduated from Richard J Murray High School in 1962, received his bachelor’s in Deaf Education from Trenton College, and later received his master's in Mental Health Counseling from Gallaudet University in 1970. Making him the first black Certified Sign Language interpreter in America. Richard served his country in the United States Army for 2 years, during his tour in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he met his first wife, Carol Esser. Through the union, they had a daughter, Gisele. He settled in Washington, DC, and there he began his interpreter career. He interpreted for many prominent Americans. List of names: Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., Jesse Jackson, etc… Later in life, he met his life partner and married his best friend, Louise Austin, in St. Augustine, FL. They both created a lifelong passion for community, social justice, the love of jazz music, and volunteering. He was a member of the Buffalo Soldiers and Troopers Motorcycle Club. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Francis and Robert White. He is survived by one daughter, Gisele White of Honolulu, Hawaii, and his wife, Louise Austin, of St. Augustine, FL He will be greatly missed and forever remembered. A memorial service celebrating Richard's exceptional life will be held July 23rd, 2026 at 11 am at St. Johns Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 385 State Rd 207, St. Augustine, FL 32084. A gathering of family and friends will preceded the service from 10-11am. We invite all who knew and loved Richard to join us in honoring his memory. Instead of flowers, we encourage you to honor Richard’s legacy by donating to the Betty Griffin Center and the St. Francis Housing Center, both in St. Augustine, Florida. We believe this would be the best tribute to his extraordinary life. Betty Griffin Center – St. Johns County Support Services for Victims of Sexual & Domestic Abuse St. Francis Housing Crisis Center and Port in the Storm Homeless Youth Center – Programs of St. Augustine Society, Inc.

Richard Lee White

June 14, 1944 - July 13, 2026