Deputy Sheriff James Timothy White

Hey Daddy. It’s been 20 years.Sometimes it’s not so bad, other days can be more challenging.

A lot has happened, but I’m sure you’ve been watching. You know, I have no idea how we’d actually talk to one another by this point. I imagine it sometimes and it would probably be like friends. You were of course, always my best friend.

You left such an impression on me, so much that I got from you has stuck with me. So much from the last time we spoke at the house, to the last time I saw you at the hospital, has stuck with me. I won’t leave anyone I love, friends or family without saying I love you. If I have a fight with my family the last thing I say is I love you. I’m sorry that wasn’t the last thing you heard me say at home. I know how it must’ve felt for me to act that way while you were trying your best.

I still watch Star Wars, there’s so much out now, I wish we could sit and watch it together. The stuff that’s been released would’ve blown you away! And Anakin is still my favorite character. I even showed Gavin, and he’s hooked as well. Man all of us together would’ve been cool! I told him a lot of stories about you, not that there was any shortage of people who could share those things with him. But I’m his big brother, and you’re our father. I wish he got to know you.

I didn’t really go the way we always talked about, me being a soldier and fighting the wars. The world is in a weird spot right now, I’m sure you’d have loads to say about it.

I did go into law enforcement, it seems now I’ve burned that bridge. From my own immaturity and mistakes for sure. I know you saw. I prayed to you so much when everything happened, every step of the way. I met some of your old friends, and I tried to be the best officer I could. I know I messed up, I know you’d have been upset. But also I know that you’d understand and you’d still be rooting for me!

You wouldn’t belive the woman I met, she really is amazing Dad. You would’ve really liked her. We got married and bought a house, I’ve even got kids of my own now and I’ll be sure to tell them all stories about you, and how great of a man you are. I really wish you could’ve met my family. I know you would’ve loved them all so much.

I’m sorry I never wrote sooner, but I do pray a lot and ask God to let you know I’m thinking of you. I’m still trying to figure things out, and I’m working on going to college like you always wanted.

I visit your grave every now and then, to say hi to you and Papa. Kaylii makes sure I go if it’s been a while, I can get distracted and busy often. Two absolute pillars for us. I’ll make sure I tell my kids about Papa too.

Well, I guess that’s all for now. I really miss you a lot and I wish we could’ve spent more time together. But I am so very glad God brought you into my life and I got to spend the time with you that at I did.

I hope I’ve made you proud.
I love you Daddy.

Nolyn Avila
Son

December 5, 2025