Jean Charlotte Arruda
September 29, 1939 – August 21, 2026

Jean Charlotte Arruda passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Jean was born in Alameda to Henry and Helen Turk and grew up on Alameda Island. She graduated from Alameda High School in 1957 and soon began her career with the Oakland Tribune in Oakland. While working there, she met Robert Allen White Jr., whom she married in 1960. Together they started their family, welcoming Jeff in 1962, David in 1963, and Jim in 1967. Raising her three boys would become one of the greatest joys of her life.

Following Robert’s passing in 1983, Jean remained devoted to raising her boys and caring for her family. She later married Frank Arruda Jr. in 1988. Together they built a life filled with travel, family gatherings, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Whether on family vacations, cruises, or simply spending time with family and friends, Jean treasured every moment with the people she loved.

Jean retired from State Compensation Insurance Company in Eureka in 2001. Retirement gave her more time to do what she loved most: spending time with her family and supporting her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family always came first. From football and baseball games to soccer matches, school events, and countless swim meets, she could almost always be found in the stands or on the sidelines cheering them on. She was their biggest fan and never missed an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments.

Jean was also an avid quilter and enjoyed needlework. For more than 30 years, she shared her love of quilting with a close group of friends who became like family. Through quilting, she created not only beautiful quilts, but also lifelong friendships and treasured memories.

Jean was a proud 56-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, cherishing the fellowship, service, and enduring traditions of the organization. She was also a past member of the Ferndale Portuguese Society and the Eureka Moose Lodge, where she enjoyed many years of friendship and community involvement.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Helen Turk; her first husband, Robert Allen White Jr.; and her husband, Frank Arruda Jr.

She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Jeff White and Lisa McCombs, David and Lisa White, and Jim and Lori White; grandchildren Matthew White, John and Emily Brown, Morgan Brown, Vincent and Jennifer Gulick, Daniel and Tiffany Gulick, Keith and Paige White, John and Tawnya White, and Krisha and Cameryn White; along with twelve great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense pride and joy. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her greatly.

Jean will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. Nothing made her happier than being surrounded by the people she loved. Her love, encouragement, and support will continue to be felt by her family and friends for generations to come.

Services will be held at Sunset Memorial Chapel in Eureka on Tuesday, September 1, with viewing at 9:30 a.m. and services at 10 a.m.

Arcata Chapter #207, Order of the Eastern Star, will be officiating the service in Jean’s honor at the above location and time.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Jean Arruda’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.