This week, it’s my pleasure to share the life story of Bonita V. White, a strong tower in the gospel music industry. Though we never met in person, it was such a pleasure to have phone conversations with her.
It was during the 25th Anniversary Live promotion, when she worked out details for Patrick Lundy to promote his new album by being my radio show guest, on Spirit 1340 WYCB, a Radio One Washington, D.C., station. We spoke on numerous occasions when she enjoyed my column, as well. Bonita would send me an email or text me to say how much she enjoyed reading the Religion Corner that week.
Let’s now delve into the life of Bonita V. White from several levels, as outlined by Phillip Carter. Bonita’s funeral services will be held Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, at Second Baptist Church Southwest, located at 5501 Silver Hill Road, District Heights, Maryland, 20747. Rev. Dr. Wallis C. Baxter III is the pastor. Viewing/visitation: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Funeral service at 11 a.m. Interment Lincoln Memorial Cemetery.
There was only one Bonita V. White. To know her was to love her, to learn from her, to be encouraged by her, and to be supported by her. Her career in ministry and service to the DMV community spanned more than 40 years, and she will forever be remembered as our DMV Superwoman.
A Proud Washingtonian and Early Beginning
Born and raised in Washington, D.C., with deep roots in the old Southwest before “urban renewal,” Bonita was a proud daughter of the District. She carried the history of her city with her, often serving as a walking, talking history book — sharp, insightful, and always eager to share.
Her musical journey began in 1956, when she sang her first solo at Second Baptist Church of Southwest, on a program sponsored by her beloved mother, Mother Clara V. White, herself a gospel luminary. That solo launched a lifetime of service in gospel music and ministry.
Distinguished Government Career
Bonita also built a remarkable 47-year career in public service. She most recently served as director of the National Policy and Programs Division in the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, Diversity & Inclusion at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). She previously directed Diversity and Inclusion (2014–2020), established the HHS Employee Resource Group (ERG) Program, and served as director of EEO Compliance.
Her career began with the Department of the Interior, where she rose through the ranks before joining HHS in 1992. She also spent time teaching U.S. history, Black studies, and Social issues in the Prince George’s County Public Schools System.
Bonita’s leadership in Diversity and Inclusion earned national recognition. She helped HHS achieve the #1 federal ranking in Employee Engagement and Inclusion Quotient, leading to HHS being named among the “Best Places to Work in the Federal Government.”
In 2018, she was named “Supervisor of the Year” by the International Personnel Management Association, Eastern Region. In 2021, she earned a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate from the University of South Florida’s Muma College of Business.
Even at retirement age, Bonita continued to work, not out of necessity, but because she truly enjoyed her service.
Her academic path included graduating with honors from Elmhurst College (1972), earning a master’s in Guidance and Counseling from Trinity College (1974), and a Juris Doctor degree from George Washington University National Law Center (1978), on a full-tuition scholarship.
Gospel Music Historian and Ambassador
As extraordinary as her government career was, Bonita’s ministry in gospel music was equally impactful. She was a founding member, business manager, and the sole female tenor of Patrick Lundy & the Ministers of Music. Affectionately known as “Queen B,” she was a guiding force behind the group’s success, lending her powerful voice and steady hand in management.
She was featured on several of the group’s recordings, including “Cover Me (feat. LeJuene Thompson),” “He’s Still the Light,” and “My Way (Live).” Her influence extended beyond PL&MOM as well. She sang with Kenneth Louis & Phase I and the Vintage Gospel Singers of Washington, D.C.
Bonita was also one of the DMV’s greatest gospel cheerleaders and ambassadors. She supported her friends by showing up to their concerts, lending a hand wherever needed, and celebrating their success with glowing words on Facebook.
In 2023, she electrified the stage when she led “Oh Lord, Stand By Me” at the 75th birthday celebration for Richard Smallwood. As one witness said, she “came out the gate swinging” and left the audience in awe.
A Life That Touched Many
Countless tributes reflect Bonita’s impact. Jeremiah Murphy remembered her as “an example of class and poise, professional, yet always kind.” He noted her ministry of service and helps, her vocal excellence, and her willingness to share her gifts freely.
In March 2025, Bonita sang with Bishop Murphy & the IYC Singers at the Hymns With Phillip Carter Conference, one of her last public ministry moments.
Jared Sawyers also offered a moving tribute, recalling how Bonita’s presence and encouragement made her a constant source of love and support. He affectionately called her “Auntie,” and she, in turn, always called him “Nephew.”
He described her as a walking history book, a gospel cheerleader, and a mentor, recalling with pride how she led “Oh Lord, Stand By Me” at Richard Smallwood’s 75th birthday celebration. His words capture the way Bonita poured herself into others, lifting, affirming, and celebrating those around her.
To those who knew her best, she was more than a colleague or friend; she was family. Her sudden passing has left the DMV community shocked and heartbroken, but deeply grateful for her life and example.
Honors and Legacy
Bonita was celebrated during her lifetime as a true pillar of the DMV gospel community. On Jan. 22, 2024, she received the 2nd DMV Musicians and Singers Fellowship Distinguished Service Award, honoring her decades of impact in ministry, music, and mentorship.
Her legacy is unmatched — a gospel music historian, a pioneering female tenor, a government trailblazer, a mentor, a cheerleader, and above all, a faithful servant.
Bonita V. White leaves behind a legacy of excellence, encouragement, and unwavering love. She lived her faith boldly, served her country with distinction, and sang her way into the hearts of everyone she met.
God bless the life and legacy of the one and only Bonita V. White, so much to so many.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Lyndia Grant is a speaker/writer living in the D.C. area. Her radio show, “Think on These Things,” airs Fridays at 6 p.m. on 1340 AM (WYCB), a Radio One station. To reach Grant, go to her website, www.lyndiagrant.com, email lyndiagrantshowdc@gmail.com or call 240-602-6295. Follow her on X @LyndiaGrant and on Facebook.
Awesome tribute Lyndia !!!