Remembering Thomas White
Tom White was more than an attorney, a public servant, and a dedicated community member—he was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding presence for so many in Dare County. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the community he helped shape.
“Tom White embodied the term counselor in his role as attorney for the Town of Nags Head,” said Bob Muller, emeritus director of OBCF and former mayor of Nags Head. “He guided us without leading us. Tom’s advice was always grounded in the law with an understanding of its nuances and its absolutes. When the Town followed Tom’s guidance, things invariably turned out well. When we didn’t follow his advice – let’s just say we learned to follow Tom’s advice.”
The Town of Nags Head recognized Tom in 2016 with the Lightkeeper Award and the Nags Header Award, which recognized his many contributions to the town, including his service as Town Attorney for three decades. Tom served as the first Town Attorney for the Town of Southern Shores and continued in that position for twenty-two years. He also served as attorney for the Dare County Board of Education for twenty-seven years.
Tom’s career was marked by notable achievements, including a landmark 1986 Supreme Court case he argued all the way from state and federal courts, which still stands as precedent in municipal zoning law. But those who knew him best remember not just his professional accomplishments, but his dedication to community.
“What I always admired about Tom, other than the fact that he was an all-around great guy, was that he was always putting something back into the community,” said Cashar Evans, who worked with Tom on numerous civic and charitable projects. “He was involved in so many good works in Dare County, and he always made time for people, no matter how busy he was.”
In his later years, Tom remained active with the Outer Banks Community Foundation, supporting its mission both as a donor and as a champion for local nonprofits. His generosity helped the foundation secure its new office on Roanoke Island, the Outer Banks Center for Nonprofits—a lasting testament to his commitment to giving back.
Anne Million, who considered Tom family and a mentor, reflected on his personal impact: “Tommy White was my family, my friend, my mentor, the best Dad-person I could have ever had. He introduced me to so many things—from computer programming on his Commodore PET to my love of adventure—and was always there to guide and support me. I can only say, thank you Tommy White, for being mine. For loving me. For opening the world up to me. For being the Dad that was always there. I love you.”
Bettie Kellogg, emeritus director of OBCF and Tom’s cousin, spoke to his character: “Tom was such a sweet man—always supportive, giving, and caring. One of his famous quotes from his mom he always repeated: ‘Your job in life is to give something back. If you aren’t making this world better for others, you are just taking up space.’ And Tom lived that every day.”
Tom White’s life was a testament to service, kindness, and community. His influence will be felt for generations to come, and his memory will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
To honor his life and legacy, Tom’s family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Martin Kellogg Memorial Fund at the Outer Banks Community Foundation. Donations will be used to award grants to nonprofits in our community. You can make a donation by clicking here.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 11:00 am at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, 300 Ananias Dare St., Manteo, NC. Pastor Marc O’Neal will officiate. The family will receive friends at 108 Budleigh, located at 108 Budleigh St, Manteo, NC, immediately following the service. Interment will follow at Roanoke Island Memorial Gardens. You can read more about Tom’s life in his obituary.
