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Celebrating the life of
William "Bill" Lawrence Wade
September 10, 1947 - August 15, 2020
William “Bill” Lawrence Wade, 72, passed away Saturday, August 15, 2020 while watering his jalapenos. St. Peter surely had a wry smile and a sore shoulder after Bill met him with a vigorous handshake and his usual greeting of, “how ya doin, how ya doin, Bill Wade, Bill Wade, nice to meet you, nice to meet you”. He would have celebrated his 73rd birthday this year with his, “Turd of Hurtles, I mean, Herd of Turtles” – as he used to say. Instead he will be saving the herd a place at heaven’s table.
It may have been Bill’s “Sinatra blue eyes” that first captured Deborah’s attention thirty years ago, but certainly it was his loving and charming personality that kept her hooked for so long. Bill’s personality was a result of growing up as the fourth child in a household of thirteen children. A kid has to be a brute, or clever, to avoid being last in line for the milk machine in his own house. Bill chose clever.
He was born on September 10, 1947, in Lawton, Oklahoma to parents, Charles Edward and Marjorie “Madge” Elizabeth (Messinger) Wade. He grew up in Lawton, and graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic High School. After attending college and graduating from Southwestern Oklahoma State University, Bill went to work selling cars at his dad’s dealership, Charlie Wade Oldsmobile, in Lawton. He sold many cars during his years there, but, in 1980 decided to move to the Southeast. There he joined Brasseler USA selling dental products. He retired from Brasseler in 2001, but continued to work selling real estate with Savannah Quarters and then Cora Bett Thomas Realty. He was still selling on Saturday when he passed away.
Bill’s loving and caring side showed through in his many years of service to the Social Apostolate, and the Rotary Club of West Chatham – Pooler, where he was president. As a devout Catholic, he spent thirty years of service as a Board Member, a Eucharistic minister, and an usher at the Cathedral.
We will miss Bill. His smile and positive attitude always filled every room he entered. He leaves us with a smiling spirit, and a memory to remind us that each day is important and truly is a gift. Be kind to others, as Bill always was, seeing the good in all.
He is survived by his loving wife Deborah; his daughter Stephanie Wade Giorgio and husband Doug and their children, Marjorie “Madge” and Grantland; his son Bill Wade Jr. and wife Sandra and their daughter Sophia; and stepdaughter Laura Hammond and her children Emmeline and Richard. Also surviving him are his brothers and sisters; Chuck Wade, Mike Wade, Joe Wade, John Wade, Mary Wade Eppler, Jerry Wade, Jeff Wade, Ann Wade Farris, Tim Wade, Danny Wade, and Jane Wade Henry; along with many nieces and nephews.
Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Marjorie “Madge” Elizabeth (Messinger) Wade, and his father, Charles Edward Wade, in addition to a brother, Thomas Anthony Wade.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, August 21, 2020, at The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. A burial service will follow in the Greenwich section of Bonaventure Cemetery under the direction of Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors. A Rosary will be said in Bill’s memory at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel on Thursday, August 20, 2020, at 5:00 p.m. (family members only).
The “Herd” understands that many may not be able to attend because of the pandemic. However, live streaming will be available at savannahcathedral.org
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to the Social Apostolate, P.O. Box 8703, Savannah, GA 31412.
There are only a few patients over my twenty years in practice that I truly consider friends. Bill Wade will always be at the top of the list. He will be a part of my heart and soul forever. Love and prayers to the entire Wade family. Jeremy and Tracey London
- Tracey and Jeremy London, Savannah, Georgia
My thoughts and prayers going to Deborah and family. Bill always had a smile on his face!
- Dana Gay, Savannah, Ga
Deborah, Stephanie, Bill Jr and families .. I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Bill was like a 2nd dad to me during my time in Savannah and beyond. He was just simply one of a kind. He was hilarious, kind, hard working, always joyful, and such a kind heart. Rest easy, Bill. You will be so missed. Until we meet again! Stefanie
- Stefanie Holland , Harrisonburg , VA
Lynda and I are deeply saddened. We were fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet Bill at earlier Southbridge gatherings. We both thought Bill was a great and inspirational person and are grateful to have met and known him. Our prayers go out for you and your family during this most difficult time.
- Tom Bartlett, Savannah, GA
A candle has been lit!
- Debbie Coolidge, Savannah , Georgia
A candle has been lit!
- Carol and Billy Ray, SAVANNAH, GA
A candle has been lit!
Debra; So sorry to hear about Bill. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless.
- ROBERT A DIXON, BONNIE B DIXON, Savannah , GA
Deborah, We always enjoyed seeing you both at the office or church. Every time I ever saw Bill he always had a smile on his face and came right up to say "hello." He will definitely be missed by so many. Praying that God wraps his arms around all of you.
- Delora and Sam Hernandez, Savannah, GA
A candle has been lit!
Bill was a great person inside and out! I am so sorry for your loss we will surely miss him! Love to all family and friends in the coming days ahead.
- Polly Giles, Springfield, Georgi
We are so sorry and sending you all our love.
- Ashley and Rob O'Brien, Helen and Julia, Savannah, Georgia
We are so sorry and heart broken over the loss of Bill. We knew him as a co-worker and friend. Always friendly and just a fun nice guy to everyone. He will be missed and our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
- Barb and Pete Chaison, Pooler, GA
Bills Jovial attitude will be missed. To his family and friends Mary and I are praying that the Holy Spirit comforts you during this period of loss. God Bless you all!
- William J Nevins, Milledgeville, GA
Dear Deborah and family Chris and I are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this most difficult time. Love Margareat and Chris Holmes
- Christopher Holmes, Pooler , Georgia
A candle has been lit!
My Brother ,My Friend Never Knew a Stranger Always Placed Family First We Will Miss You David Robin & Brianne
- David l Williams, ROCKY POINT, NC
A candle has been lit!
Our thoughts and prayers to you Deborah and all of your family. So very sorry for your tremendous loss!!!
- Joyce and Scott McAllister, SAVANNAH, GA
I am so sorry for your loss and heartache. Bill was a huge personality and made every event better just by his presence.
- Paula Geis Partin, Champaign , Illinois
Stephanie - I am so very saddened to hear of your father's passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
- lori bradshaw, clearfield, utah
Stephanie - I am so very saddened to hear of your father's passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
- lori bradshaw, clearfield, utah
So very sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to the Wade family. Bill was definitely one of a kind
- Monica McKinney, Savannah, Ga
I started to school with Bill in September 1953 and graduated with him in May of 1965 from St. Marys in Lawton. I am so glad we had our 50th Class re-union, and were able to see Bill and Deborah. Bill was one of our rocks all those years--altar boy, played sports, could always be counted on, etc. He was such a fine person--always a gentleman, always in a good mood, always ready to see the humor in something. The Class of '65 is poorer for his passing...
- Patricia (Patty) Dawes, Lawton, OK
A candle has been lit!
- Morris (Susy, Sammy and Joed), Oklahoma City, OK
Bill Sr. was the father of my greatest lifelong friend, Bill Jr. Evidence of the love for his family was clear as he often cast a skeptical eye in my direction. After all, Bill Jr and I carried on in a mischievous manner and, on rare occasions, were "up to no good". Regardless, I only ever saw Bill Sr express love and kindness to everyone he met. He was a great guy and I am sad that he has gone. My heart goes out to all who miss him for the void left in his absence can never be filled. Peace and love be with you always.
- Clayton Jackson, Brunswick, GA
Stephanie, Doug, Madge and Grantland, my thoughts and prayers are with ya'll during these sad times.
- Doug Burford, Tybee Island, GA
Keeping the Herd in my thoughts and prayers during this time of your loss. Remembering Bill’s laugh and smile will get your through the next several days.
- Matt McKinnis, Rehoboth Beach, DE
Our condolences to the entire Wade and Reed families.
- Dan and Maia Everhart, Sulphur , OK
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Your family will be in my prayers.
- Lisa Galloway (Lawrence), Okc, Ok
So sorry for your loss. I met Bill and Deborah when the Mended Hearts Chapter was formed at Memorial Hospital. He always had a smile and was great visiting patients with heart issues.
- Terry Ray, Savannah, Ga
A candle has been lit!
- JOE BERRY, SAVANNAH, GA
A candle has been lit!
You know when someone achieves success in life when they are respected by adults and loved by children. Bill was highly successful.
- Regina Graham, Savannah, GA
Ron and I are terribly saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. We met Bill when we came to Savannah Quarters to buy real estate. We have never had as much fun making a purchase as we did with him! Our Anniversaries were close together and I remember one time meeting with him and Deborah for drinks to celebrate. I also remember almost falling off the bar stool laughing so hard. To his family we send our deepest sympathies. There is no question he will be so very missed.
- Ron and Robi Gilbertson , Highland , Maryland
We will be praying for you Deborah and all the family. Bill's obituary was just perfect in describing the kind of man he was and the life of service he led. He will be missed.
- Sue and Jerry Cornish, Savannah, GA
Danny and family my prayers are with you. Our condolences for your loss.
- Jeff Fitzpatrick and family, Fort Worth , Texas
I am sorry for your loss. Bill was a wonderful person to work with. He will always hold a special place in my heart. I will miss heLping him out at work. I keep you in my thought and prayers.
- Veronica DeBorde, Savannah, Ga
A candle has been lit!
In deepest sympathy, you are in our thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. You are no longer next door but will always be considered a good neighbor.
- Jim and Joanna Williams, Savannah , GA
Bill was always upbeat, with a smile on his face, a good word for every one. I will truly miss his laugh and expression of love for his wife and family.
- Tommy Thompson, Tybee Island, GA
So sorry for your loss. Bill was a good friend and mentor during my time working with him at Savannah Quarters. He will be missed by a great number of people. Prayers to the family.
- Leslie Parrish, Pooler, GA
A candle has been lit!
- Nicole Barras Beaver, Savannh , Georgia
Wade cousins, Of thirteen it was often hard to stand out, but never for Bill. His boundless energy and passion for life made sure that he was special. Madge always said she never had favorites but it was hard to not like Bill as we were growing up and as a man. And I can think of a no more fitting way to greet death than watering his jalapeños. In many ways Bill was a jalapeño. Once one met him there was an explosion of life that always stayed with you. Bill will always live in my heart. I am so sad for our loss. Rick
- Rick Hill, Fairfax, Virginia
I am so very sorry for your loss. My brothers spent an inordinate amount of time at the great house on Gore and were always in awe of the ordered chaos that was mealtime but were thrilled with the milk machine as I recall 50 years ago. Bill sold me my first of so many cars I have owned. Always a gentleman and treated a 16 year old like a millionaire. Losing any family member is terrible but losing a sibling hurts in a special way. I hope you all find some comfort in each other. From all of us our deepest condolences. Jerry Breathwit & family.
- Jerry Breathwit, OKC, OK
I am saddened by the passing of a wonderful man. My condolences to Deborah and all of the family of Bill Wade. Peace.
- Francesca A. Rehal, Savannah, GA
My condolences on Bill's passing.
- Inge Brasseler, Savannah, Georgia
We are so sorry to hear the sad news. Our prayers are with you all at this very sad time.
- Kim Rigsby, Savannah, Ga
Bill could energize a room just by walking in, but make you feel like you were the only person in it. He was a great neighbor to me and my boys. We just saw him at the pool last week and he was so full of life. He will be missed. Deborah, my heart breaks for you, but I know your strong faith will see you through. Love to you and to Bill.
- Tom Westcott, Pooler, GA
Grew up with Bill, graduated from college with him and always loved him. His personality made us instantly love him.
- Anita and Joe Cummins, Henderson , NV
A candle has been lit!
Our deepest sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Teltech Group, Frisco, Texas
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Our deepest condolences.
- Jeri and Krishna Raman, Savannah, GA
Dear Deborah: Aunt Gloria, Stephanie and I are so incredibly saddened by the loss of Bill. Even though we haven't seen you both in a few years, we have fond and loving memories of the times we were together. We cherish those times. We wish you comfort in your time of grief, and we love you.
- Greg Williams, Kingsville, MD
Stephanie, We are so so sorry to hear about your dad. Prayers to you and the family!n
- Jennifer and John Forbes
What a great loss to our community. Bill, to say the least, was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by all. Bill was a wonderful friend and amazing to work with. I’ll certainly miss the guy. Deborah all my love and prayers going out to you and your beautiful family during this time.
- Marti & Ted Tomlin, Savannah, GA
Deborah, Tom and I are saddened by this loss for you and your families. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Betsy Horne
- Ruth Elizabeth HORNE, Savannah, GA
A candle has been lit!
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
- Laurice Ann Ward, Beaufort, SC
To all the Wade family, out thoughts and prayers are with you. Bill Sr.'s infectious smile and laughter will truly be missed. If you need anything please don't hesitate to ask. All our Love.
- Russell Weinwurm & Christine Hill, Cumming, GA
A candle has been lit!
My sister Betsy and I have a lot of fond memories of Bill and the Wade family. We grew up in the same neighborhood and Bill was a good friend.
- LARRY KISSICK, CACHE, Oklahoma
My prayers are with you. It was my privilege to serve with Bill on the Savannah MLS Board and various committees over the years. He was always professional, thoughtful, and kind with a slightly mischievous smile that seemed to say "Don't take life too seriously". Peace be with you.
- Patrick Kelley, Savannah, GEORGIA
Bill and his brother Joe sold me several Olds while they were in Lawton. Sure missed it when the dealership closed. I still have a Charley Wade license plate frame it goes with my admission ticket to Doe Doe Park.
- Charles Young, Lawton, Okla
Bill always had a smile on his face when he greeted you. His welcoming spirit will be missed by all who had the honor to meet him. He will be missed....
- Susan Mulvaney & Dennis Abernathy, Pooler, GA
My condolences to the family. So sorry to hear of his passing.
- Patty Dent Gammon, Winthrop, Maine
To all family members; you have my thoughts and prayers.
- Dennis Dent, Austin, TX
The Specht family of seven all grew up with the Wade family at St Mary’s with me and my twin being best friends with Jeff on Jerry. Bill was older but sure had our respect. Sending our family’s condolences.
- David Specht & Specht family , The Colony , TX
Prayers for all of Bill's family . He was my high school chum at St. Marys School in Lawton, Oklahoma. He will be missed by so many.
- joellen Flores Simmons, Rockport, TX
Dear Deborah.....Wayne and I are heartbroken over the passing of Bill. From the moment that we stepped into the Cathedral as first time members, Bill was there to greet us. For the years that we were there, Bill was always the one to make us feel like being there was extra special. I remember so well, seeing him rushing up the aisle to get the collection basket or to do some other job that needed to be done. He was so very special....and as such, will be missed so much. We are so very sorry....for everyone....you, Deborah, and family but also, his friends, Cathedral members, and everyone that knew this great man. His passing is such a loss.
- Wayne and Marilyn Sheridan, Savannah, Georgia
Please accept my heart felt condolences to the family and friends of Bill. While my interactions were limited to seeing him at Mass at the Cathedral, he was always kind and courteous. May he rest in peace.
- Brother Logan, Savannah, Georgia
Deborah we are so sorry to hear about Bill. We just found out from a neighbor. We will be praying for you and your family.
- Greg and Amy Brindley, Pooler, Ga
Dearest Debbie and Family, our deepest sympathy in your loss. May the Lord comfort and sustain you.. Love Randall and Shirley
- shirley miller, SAVANNAH, GA
So sorry for your loss. I worked with Bill at Brasseler and was a guest at his beautiful wedding. Great guy! We will miss you.
- Miriam Wall, Dakota City, NE
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Mass of Christian Burial
- 10:00 AM on Fri, August 21, 2020
- Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
-
222 East Harris Street (map)
SAVANNAH GA 31401 - 912-233-4709
- Burial
- on Fri, August 21, 2020
- Greenwich Cemetery
-
330 Greenwich Road (map)
Savannah GA 31404 - 912-651-6843