Walter Donkin White was born June 8, 1890 in Hartlepool, Co. Durham. He was the son of William and Hannah White. William was a sailor.

In the 1901 census Walter was the 6th of 9 children.

Walter married Mary Zillah Johnson in 1914 in Hartlepool.

Walter joined the Merchant Navy. His discharge number was 909261.

Walter died at sea July 6, 1947. He was a Chief Steward with 30 years service.

Walter Donkin White is the grandfather of Thomas Hodgson of Aycliffe.