Pam has been in the later stages of Alzheimer’s over the last year and, on June 6th, died peacefully at home with her family sitting by her side. POV extends our heartfelt condolences to Pam’s family and all of her loved ones.
Pamela Steele White, gifted therapist and beloved mother, wife, and friend, died June 6. She was 69.
She was a seasonal resident of Katama.
Pamela was born in Boston, and had a self-described “fairy tale” childhood. She was raised in the Hotel Continental in Harvard Square, which was owned and managed by her father, Chauncey Steele. She often posed for paintings for her mother, renowned artist Marian Steele. Pam shared her fairy tale charm and optimism throughout her remarkable life. Pam was a unique, vibrant spirit who was loved by all who knew her.
She had many careers: a professional model, a teacher for the developmentally delayed, a social worker and health counselor at Milton Academy, and a therapist in private practice. She co-founded a Boston area a cappella group, The Second Wind, which is in its 43rd consecutive year performing. She was a trusted ally and feared opponent on the tennis court, and an exemplar sportswoman.
Above all else, she loved her family, was fiercely loyal, and made everyone around her feel heard, loved, and lucky to have known her.
Pamela is survived by her husband, Edward White, her brother Chum Steele, her children Banker White, Devon White Angelini, and Luke White, her grandchildren Leif, Elin, Dylan, Edward, and Oscar, and dozens of well-earned friends.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 10 at noon at the Church of the Redeemer in Chestnut Hill.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Pamela Steele White Family Foundation, c/o Lynch Brewer Hoffman & Fink, 75 Federal St, 7th Floor, Boston, MA, 02110. The foundation will fund scholarships to deserving students in the Boston Area, among Pamela’s other charitable interests.” — Vineyard Gazette
Many PBS stations will broadcast an encore presentation of The Genius of Marian at 10 p.m. tonight, or during the coming week (check local listings).
For more resources on Alzheimer’s, aging and caregiving, use the POV discussion guide and lesson plan, or visit The Genius of Caring, an interactive story-sharing project featuring those whose lives have been touched by Alzheimer’s.
