Obituary: William Holman White

William Holman White, 71, of Windham, Dies at Home

Windham, Maine – William Holman “Bill” White, 71, passed away peacefully in his Windham home on September 8, 2026, after a life that was as inventive as it was devoted to family.

Born the youngest son of Kendall T. White Sr. and Constance Fraser White of Cape Elizabeth, Bill grew up in South Portland, where he attended local schools before embarking on a career that combined his natural mechanical aptitude with his love of the outdoors. He spent the majority of his working years as a crane operator for H & H Rigging in Portland, a role that allowed him to repair or replace a wide array of machinery with a skill that earned him respect among colleagues and friends alike.

Bill’s personal life was centered around those he loved most. He and his wife, Janet Cook White, shared a deep partnership that was cut short when Janet predeceased him. Together they raised three children: Lillian White of Windham, Keith Cook, and Linda Rackliff. After Janet’s passing, Bill devoted himself to caring for Lillian, who was the focus of his attention in his final years.

In addition to his family with Janet, Bill had two sons from a previous marriage to Terry Butler—Peter White, who is married to Sonja Sanborn, and Robert White—along with a still‑born son, William Holman White Jr., who had tragically passed before either parent. Bill also had children he cherished from a later relationship: Aaron Fontes, who also predeceased him, and Keith Green.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Bill was known for his ability to stock the family freezer with a variety of hunting gear, ranging from bows and arrows to muskets and shotguns. Friends and neighbors remembered him as “brilliant, hilarious, and beloved,” qualities that made him a standout member of the Windham community.

Bill is survived by his siblings—Jane Newton (Dennis), Rebecca Morgan (Robert), Thomas White (Lisa), and Kendall White—who all shared a close bond with him. He will also be remembered by the many friends who admired his mechanical skill and his warm, often humorous presence.

Services for Bill will be held privately, as requested. Those wishing to honor his memory may do so by sharing stories, memories, or simply visiting the family in Windham.