Willie F. Wade

Willie Frank Wade was born September 5, 1948, in Quincy, Florida. He was the beloved son of the late Mr. LeeThaniel Wade and Mrs. Bessie Brown Wade. He was 76 years old.

Willie, affectionately known as “Goat”, was educated in the Decatur County Public School System. After graduation, he proudly served his country in the U. S. Army (1961-1970); he was a Vietnam Veteran. A lifelong learner, Willie continued his education at Thomas Tech after returning to civilian life.

Very early in life, Willie was taught the Word of GOD and the importance of living a purposeful life. He accepted CHRIST at a young age and was a devoted member of Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Eldorendo, Georgia.

He was a loyal member of Freddie Boy’s Car Club and proud alumni of Hutto High Class of 1967. He was a dedicated employee of Ohio Edison Power Company in Loraine, Ohio, as a Control Room Operator for over 30 years. After retirement, he relocated back to Bainbridge, Georgia, where he reunited with his high school sweetheart Iola Smart. They were united in matrimony on December 21, 2013. The two shared a love that knew no boundaries and a devotion to one another that was unshakeable. Together, they created a home filled with love, respect and strong family values. 

As a husband and father, he proved to be a true anchor for his family and worked tirelessly to provide for them unconditionally. He was deeply devoted to his family and friends, provided love and support to anyone in need and was accepting and forgiving. He never met a stranger and always found something to chat about. He was a devoted husband, father and brother and adored his grandchildren. 

Willie transitioned from this earthly life on February 16, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four siblings.

He leaves to cherish his memories a devoted wife, Iola Wade; his children: Theresa “Peaches” Swan (Audraist), Tjuana Wade (Carlos), Yolanda Wade, Misty Thomas (Dwaine), Toby Wade (Dolores), Sheila Coleman, Shondell Coleman, Keidra Coleman and Eddie Coleman Jr.; his siblings: Dollie Mae Emanuel, Willie B. Wade (Wendy), Gregory Wade (Stacy), Booker T. Wade and Margie Wade; mother-in-law, Mary E. Smart; sister-in-law, Dorothy Love; and brothers-in-law, Loniell Smart (Barbara) and Winford Smart. He also leaves twelve grandchildren, twenty-three great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and numerous friends.