Merelle White

Merelle Joan White, known to family as “Merelli” and by her Anishinaabe name “Nizho Nagweyaabin” (Second Rainbow), was a beloved 20-year-old member of the Bear Clan from Red Lake, Minnesota. Born June 3, 2004, Merelle filled rooms and phones with laughter and music — she loved basketball, beauty, dancing, and making TikTok videos that captured her playful, proud spirit.

Merelle’s family remembers her for the fierce way she loved her sisters and the warmth she showed to those closest to her. She took joy in everyday things — styling her hair and nails, moving to her favorite songs, and sharing snapshots of her life with the people she cared about. Those small acts of attention and affection were how she made sure people always knew they were loved.

She joins in spirit her mother, Angela May; grandmothers Gail May, Audrey White and Ardelle Joanie Blue; great-grandmother Sally May; and grandfathers Victor White, Sam White and Arnold May. She is survived and lovingly remembered by her father, Samuel White, Sr.; special parents Susan Arellano and Lester Royal; and a large circle of siblings, cousins and extended family who cherished her presence.

Merelle’s family honored her with gatherings at the Red Lake Center where relatives and friends came together to celebrate the life she lived and the love she gave. In remembering Merelle, her community holds close the bright moments she shared — her laughter, her dance, and the attention she always gave to those she loved. Though her life was far too short, the tenderness and joy she offered remain with those who knew her.