William H. Wade, Jr. (Bill) passed away peacefully at Kroontje Health Care Center in Blacksburg April 8, 2024.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 62 years, Lois B. Wade. He is also survived by his brother-in-law: Reverend David Bayse. He is survived by three nephews: John Bayse (Kelly), Paul Bayse (Diane), and Timothy Bayse (Jocelyn). Also, two cousins: Fredene Poff and Reginald Gentry. Also surviving are his extended family: Betty Greene (William), Lesley Mitchell (Jeff), Abi Lester (Darrell), and Ernestine Weeks. Also, nieces by marriage: Aldene Bradley (Jay) and Anette Lloyd (Mark). Special friends left to cherish his memory are Sandy and David Price, Wanda and Cam Chalmers, Sandra Smith, and Pastor John and Carrie Hopkins. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Beulah and Howard Wade and his sister, Mae Wade Bayse.
Bill was born in Vicker, Va. March 21, 1933. As a young adult, he worked with his father, constructing homes in Blacksburg, VA. He went on to serve his country in the Army Engineering Aviation Battalion in Korea. While in service, he attended the ETA Jima Specialist School in Japan. Upon returning from overseas, he received his AAS degree in Architectural Drafting from New River Community College in 1975. Bill held various positions throughout his career, including Project Engineer at Hubbell Lighting and serving as Project Manager for the Horton Center for the Virginia Tech Foundation. He was a faithful attender of Blacksburg First Wesleyan Church since he was a child, enjoying assisting with sound equipment for services as a young adult.
Bill and Lois were married Feb. 10, 1962, in Roanoke. They began many travels and have been to 48 states, as well as Canada. In their later years, Bill and Lois served as primary caregivers to many dear family members. Bill was a wonderful and dedicated supporter of Lois in her love for nursing home ministry. Bill greatly enjoyed spending time on the enclosed porch, enjoying the sun, beautiful views, and watching the deer from his home, despite his struggle with dementia and his eventual stay in Kroontje Health Care Center.
A note of special thanks to Carilion New River Valley Medical Center, LewisGale Hospital Montgomery, Dr. Schano, Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad and Christiansburg Rescue Squad. Also, to the three main caregivers: Fredene Poff, Anette Lloyd, and Darrell Lester. Thanks to McCoy Funeral Home, following his passing, Bill was able to make his final trip through Vicker, VA, followed by his wife, Lois, his cousin, Fredene, and his niece, Anette.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Blacksburg First Wesleyan Church Outreach Project, a project begun by Bill and Lois to help others: Blacksburg First Wesleyan, 1406 Giles Road, Blacksburg, VA 24060.Visitation was Friday, April 12, 2024, at McCoy Funeral Home, followed by a short service in the mausoleum at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Christiansburg, VA, with Pastor John Hopkins officiating, assisted by Reverend David Bayse.
