U of A Honors Life and Legacy of Mary Lib White

The U of A is honoring the life and legacy of Mary Elizabeth Quarles White, affectionately known as Mary Lib, whose steadfast service, philanthropy and commitment to the university touched generations of students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends. She passed away on June 23, 2026.

For more than a decade, Mary Lib served as first lady of the U of A during the tenure of her husband, Chancellor Emeritus John A. White Jr. While that role brought a public presence, those who knew her understood that her greatest contributions often came through quiet acts of service, thoughtful leadership and a genuine commitment to making the university and broader community stronger.

Throughout Chancellor White's leadership, the university experienced a period of significant academic growth and philanthropic momentum. Mary Lib was an active partner in that work. Her warmth, generosity and steady presence helped foster relationships that strengthened the university and advanced its mission.

"Mary Lib White's legacy at the University of Arkansas is reflected not only in the programs she strengthened and the opportunities she helped create, but also in the many people she encouraged and inspired," said Chancellor Charles Robinson. "Her kindness, humility and generous spirit left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. We extend our deepest condolences to Chancellor White and the White family as we honor a life so well lived." 

The Whites also demonstrated that commitment through their own philanthropy. Their support included establishing the John and Mary Lib White Systems Integration Chair in Industrial Engineering and creating an endowed Access Arkansas scholarship to help future educators pursue a U of A degree. Their generosity reflected a long-standing belief in expanding opportunity through education and investing in the people who would shape Arkansas' future.

"Mary Lib always had a smile that would light up the room," said Kim Needy, dean of the College of Engineering. "Her kindness and genuine care for all those she met will be sorely missed. Her impact continues to be felt across campus by our students, faculty and staff."

Mary Lib was a charter member of the Women's Giving Circle, served on the University House renovation committee, participated in the Women in Philanthropy Committee and was recognized as an honorary alumna by the Arkansas Alumni Association in 2004. She represented the university at countless campus and community events and became known for welcoming visitors with kindness and genuine interest in others.

"Mary Lib White was an extraordinary person who enriched countless lives through a lifetime of service," said Scott Varady, vice chancellor for advancement. "She gave generously of her time, her encouragement and her leadership, making a lasting impact on the university and broader community. We are deeply grateful for her remarkable life and the example she leaves for all of us."

Born Nov. 2, 1937, in White Pine, Tennessee, Mary Lib earned a bachelor's degree in home economics from East Tennessee State University, where she distinguished herself as a student leader before beginning her career as a teacher. She and John White married in 1963, embarking on a life of service that led them through leadership roles at Virginia Tech, Ohio State University, Georgia Tech, the National Science Foundation and, ultimately, the U of A.

Service remained a defining thread throughout her life. Whether volunteering in her community, supporting university initiatives or encouraging students and colleagues, Mary Lib approached each opportunity with humility and generosity. Friends and family remember someone who invested deeply in people, creating meaningful connections wherever life took her.

She is survived by her husband of more than 60 years, Chancellor Emeritus John A. White Jr.; her brother, George William "Bill" Quarles; her children, Kimberly White Brakmann (Ed) and John Austin White III (Julie); her grandchildren, Sara Elizabeth Brakmann, Emma Katherine White, Charlotte Kate Brakmann Gray (Bradley) and John Austin White IV; and her great-granddaughter, Elsie Elizabeth Gray.

The U of A extends its deepest sympathy to Chancellor White and the entire White family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Memory Matters, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Donations may be made at mymemorymatters.org.