Kaut White

Barrett Kaut White, a beloved member of the Paragould community, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on May 6, 1933, in Saint Louis, Missouri, Kaut moved to Paragould in the ninth grade when his father opened the Ed White Junior Shoe Factory, where he would later dedicate several years of his life to working alongside family. He graduated from Paragould High School in 1952 and went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree from Arkansas State University in 1956.

Throughout his life, Kaut remained a devoted businessman, owning various enterprises and contributing significantly to the local economy. His commitment to community service was evident as he became a respected member of the Rotary Club, receiving the distinguished title of Paul Harris Fellow. Kaut was instrumental in founding the Greene County Museum, a testament to his love for the community and its history, and he served on the board of directors and volunteered there for many years. His passion for enhancing the beauty of Paragould was evident through his service on the City Beautiful Commission and his vital role in the Greene County Courthouse Restoration Committee.

Kaut had a zest for life that included an avid interest in sports, particularly in cheering for the Arkansas State University Red Wolves, attending many games to support his team and serving three years on the Arkansas State Women's Basketball Board. His adventurous spirit was exemplified by his achievement in obtaining a pilot's license during high school and a lifelong fascination with flying, culminating in the construction of an impressive replica airplane. He also embraced his creativity through woodworking and enjoyed building unique projects, including a dune buggy in collaboration with his sons and an extensive slot car track in his basement. It was known that Kaut could build anything, and he proved that on many occassions.

A proud veteran, Kaut served in the United States Army and was known for his strong Presbyterian faith, guiding his actions and contributions throughout his life.

Kaut is survived by his loving wife, Lynda Heath White; his children, Gina (Tim) Jarrett, Kaut (Cari) White, David (Chris) White, and Sharon (Tony) Dibble; bonus daughter, Tanya (Scott) Ellington; bonus son-in-law, Stephen Posey; grandchildren, Amanda (Michael) Carter, Lee (Jessica) McBride, Jack (Rebecca) Ellington, Maddie White, Caroline Jarrett, Preslie (Cody) Hammonds, Bradley (Lucy) McBride, Carly Dibble, Payton Storm, Luke Dibble, Kathryn Posey, and John Thomas Posey; and great grandchildren, Brecken, Noah, Michael, Aiden, Fred, and Hayes. Kaut is preceded in death by his parents, Ed Barret White, Jr. and Virginia Kaut White; mother of his children, Barbara Emmert White; and bonus daughters, Kim Bryant and Melanie Posey.

Funeral services will be held at Heath Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Visitation will commence at 12:00 PM, followed by a service celebrating Kaut's remarkable life at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery.

In remembrance of Barrett Kaut White, we honor a life well-lived, marked by profound community engagement, familial love, and a passion for exploration and creativity. His legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

To honor Kaut, please send memorials to the Greene County Museum, a cause very important to him, at PO Box 991, Paragould, AR 72451.