My colleague Dan Dry’s words at Facebook perfectly convey what we’ve all been feeling the past 24 hours.
It is with the deepest sympathy — and still a sense of shock and disbelief — that I share the passing of my dear friend and Food & Dining Magazine publisher, John Carlos White.
John and I knew and worked alongside each other for more than 23 years. During that time, I had the privilege of photographing every single cover of his remarkable magazine — four covers a year for all of those 23 plus years. But what we shared went far beyond a professional collaboration.
Yes, at times we sparred like an old married couple. But beneath it all was a mutual respect and a bond that is rare in these days and times. We pushed each other. We trusted each other. And we built something meaningful together.
John passed away on February 19. He will be profoundly missed by so many — and certainly not least by me.
Here are the details for his visitation.
Family, friends, and all who were touched by John’s warmth and generosity are invited to gather for visitation on February 24, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany, Indiana 47150.
Rest in peace, my brother.
John’s passing leaves an enormous, unfathomable void in our lives, and while there will be a great many questions in the coming days, we’ll get to them later.
Right now, we’re choosing to honor and celebrate John’s life in the the same spirit as he lived it, with great food, drinks and people. My wife and I toasted John earlier today during lunch at Mojitos in Havana, then tore into our ropa vieja, black beans and plantains with gusto.
Trust me; this is exactly what John would want us to do. From Newcomer’s obituary, these words:
Outside of his professional accomplishments, John embraced life fully. He enjoyed watching football and college basketball, delighted in the pageantry and excitement of the Kentucky Derby, and treasured the camaraderie of a poker game with friends. Above all else, John treasured time with his family. Whether gathered around a holiday table or simply sharing a casual meal, he was happiest when everyone was together, plates were full,...Read more
