Vernastine C. White, born November 13, 1936, in Pleasanton, Kansas, departed this world on June 26, 2026, in Overland Park, Kansas. Her remarkable journey of eighty-nine years was one defined by resilience, enterprise, devotion, and an abiding love for family.

Vernastine’s early roots in Pleasanton would ground her with a sense of purpose that she carried throughout her life. She was the cherished daughter of Charles and Eilza Fryman, whose loving guidance shaped her formative years. In time, Vernastine built a life rich in meaning and accomplishment, most notably entwined with Odis White, her beloved husband. Together, Vernastine and Odas forged not only a sturdy partnership in marriage but also a dynamic business partnership, owning and operating Ace Taxi and ABC Fleet—efforts that became foundational to both their family and the community.

She lent her industrious nature to the Officer’s Club at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, where those who met her recall a woman whose work ethic was matched only by her tenacity. Through each endeavor, Vernastine took immense pride in her contributions, finding fulfillment in the pursuit of honest work and the joy of shared endeavors with Odas.

To her family, Vernastine was the embodiment of maternal affection and formidable spirit. She was a devoted mother to her surviving daughter, Carrie Blankenship, and her sons, Kevin Tryon and Giles Tryon, Jr. . Her capacity to nurture extended deeply, as she lovingly raised her grandchildren—Mystic Underwood, Mathew Underwood, Dusty Michaels, Jeremy Tayrien, Robin Tryon, Wade Tryon, Jessie Tryon, Jade Tryon, Giles Tryon and Jennifer Tryon. Her generosity of spirit radiated to all, including many nieces and nephews, who cherish the indelible imprint she left upon their hearts.

Though Vernastine faced the tremendous loss of her husband Odas, and sons Thomas Tryon, Robert Chris, Gene Tryon, her enduring love for them remained a guiding light in her later years. She honored their memories daily in the warmth she gave and the traditions she upheld.

Those who knew Vernastine best recall a woman of strong opinions, occasionally stubborn, always fiercely loyal and caring. To say she was a good mother would hardly suffice—she was also a great cook, the caretaker of children, the matriarch whose love and discipline shaped generations. Even as age lent her a certain temperamental candor, Vernastine’s legacy was steadfast: she was unwavering in her devotion to those she held dear, resolute in her values, and unrelenting in her pursuit to see her family flourish.

Among Vernastine’s proudest accomplishments was her devotion to being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She held this role above all others, treasuring each moment spent with children and grandchildren. Alongside her entrepreneurial ventures, these familial bonds were her life’s crowning joy and abiding legacy.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Vernastine C. White will be held on July 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Davis Funeral Chapel, 531 Shawnee Street, Leavenworth, KS 66048. All who knew Vernastine, whose lives she touched with wisdom, humor, and love, are invited to join her family in remembrance.

As we bid farewell to Vernastine C. White, we remember a life marked by perseverance, love, and the enduring gift of family. Her memory will forever give strength and comfort to those who walk the path she forged with unwavering courage and compassion.