Stephen Adrian White, C.M., 78, of Moncton, passed away on Wednesday August 13, 2025 at the Grass Home in Riverview. Born in Framingham, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Clement and Eileen (Miller) White.
A graduate of Harvard College ‘68 and the University of Pennsylvania Law School ‘71, he practiced law in Boston for a few years before pursuing his life’s work full time as genealogist of the Centre d'études acadiennes Anselme-Chiasson at the Université de Moncton for 49 years. Through his major publication, the Dictionnaire généalogique des familles acadiennes, he helped countless people discover their Acadian heritage. He was awarded many honours for his work, including the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal and most recently Honorary Member of the Order of Canada.
Throughout his life he was involved in the local community, volunteering with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Heritage Conservation Board, as well as several Acadian family associations, including the Fédération Associations de Familles Acadiennes (FAFA). He was also an avid gardener and valued caring for the environment.
He is survived by the mother of his daughter, Annette (Léger); his daughter, Anne; and grandson Simon, all of Moncton; one brother, Thomas (Sarah) of Hopkinton, Massachusetts; one sister, Maureen (Steven) of Waterbury, Connecticut; as well as many nieces and nephews.
A special thank you goes to all the staff at the Grass Home in Riverview for the exceptional care and love given to Stephen during his stay. We will forever be grateful for your devotion.
The family will receive condolences at Frenette Funeral and Cremation Centre, 88 Church Street, Moncton (506-858-1900) on Thursday from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 pm only. The funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Bernard’s Roman Catholic Church, 43 Botsford Street, Moncton on Friday August 22 at 11 am. Interment will be at Our Lady of Calvary Cemetery in Dieppe.
In memory of Stephen, a donation may be made to the University of Moncton at https://www.umoncton.ca/dons/en/make-a-gift for the establishment of a scholarship in his name or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Words of comfort and donations can be made at www.frenettefuneralhome.com