By Kathleen McSweeney

For half a century, Robert and Shelya White have lived on the corner of North Fillmore and 4th Street across from Lyon Park. In 1973 they toured what was then a dilapidated two-bedroom house. They purchased their home over the strong objections of their realtor because they liked the neighborhood, it was close to their jobs, and the house was the right price ($37,950) for their family. Talks of a metro being planned a few blocks away in Clarendon sealed the deal. They raised two sons, Steven and Robert, in that home. In 2008, Shelya and Robert did a major renovation and rebuilt the house that stands on the corner today. 

Both Shelya and Robert are retired Federal employees. Shelya worked as a Human Resources Specialist for several agencies. She mentioned that she should have followed the advice she routinely gave new government hires: “Take an early retirement and then spend your life traveling.” Robert worked as a civil servant for 33 years, first as an environmental and physical scientist before retiring from Federal service and contracting with Northrup Grumman. After retiring, Shelya was able to take her own advice. She and Robert have taken trips to several places including England, France, Switzerland and the Vatican, Australia, Hawaii, Tahiti, the Carribean, Panama, and Alaska.

In addition to their busy jobs and family responsibilities, Shelya and Robert have volunteered for decades. Much of their charitable work has been as members of the Eastern Star (Shelya and Robert) and Masons (Robert) helping to raise significant funds for many worthy causes.  Both have held leadership positions and served as Grand Representatives from Virginia to Australia (Robert in 2013 and 2014) and to New York (Shelya in 2015). Robert is a founder and served as secretary of the Patriot Lodge at George Mason University, and Shelya currently serves as the Secretary of the local Unity Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. 

Locally, Robert served on the Board and was the Vice President of the Arlington Historic Society. Shelya has served for decades on the Board of the Lyon Park Woman’s Club and has been a reliable volunteer at Lyon Park annual events such as the Spring Fair, Halloween donut and cider distribution, spaghetti dinner, and regular cupcake sales. For years, members of the Woman’s Club have appreciated receiving Shelya’s hand-written cards extending good wishes for birthdays and special events, and condolences when loved ones have passed. Those cards are a meaningful and personal expression of community here in Lyon Park. 

Growing up, Robert’s family had limited means but were close and supportive. When asked why they spend so much time volunteering Robert stated that he was raised to always help people – whether they be family or members of the community. Shelya responded, “We live in such a privileged community here in Lyon Park. It is heartbreaking to witness other Arlington neighbors who need assistance, and we feel compelled to help.” 

Note: Robert and Shelya have started a 501(c)3 organization to fund research for a very rare, degenerative disease called Alexander Disease that has impacted members of Robert’s family and strikes 1 out of every 2.7 million people. If any neighbor has knowledge and can  assist them in including the charity in the annual Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), please reach out to them.