Jerry S. Wade

Jerry S. Wade was born November 30, 1942 in Roanoke, Virginia. He passed away Friday, October 5, 2018, in Columbus, Ohio, at the age of 75. His mother, Bessie Wade, preceded him in death. A veteran of the United States Air Force, Jerry completed his undergraduate studies at Franklin University (Columbus, OH) and obtained his Master of Business Administration degree from Central Michigan University. He worked as a civilian employee in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and ultimately, the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). His longest and most recent position was at Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC), where he worked as a Small Business Specialist for the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). In 2003, Mr. Wade retired with more than forty years of combined service with the federal government. Some of his favorite pastimes included cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes or enjoying a good meal with family and friends. Moreover, Jerry had a keen interest in photography, traveling, education and humanity. Through the years, his heart for philanthropy and stewardship was often exemplified by his personal efforts toward the advancement of community causes. He was highly instrumental in the planning and development of Somerset Park (now Harrison Smith Park) as well as Howard Community Recreation Center. Likewise, Jerry was the founder of the longstanding Mifflin Sharks Youth Association football team, and often advocated for youth in the community by providing encouragement and employment assistance to those in need. Jerry is survived by his wife, Marjorie Lockett Wade; daughter LaTonya Wade; sons, Darren (Sandra) and Jerry Jr. (Cassandra), all of Columbus, Ohio; sisters, Susan Parker-Thomas (Robert) of Sacramento, California, and Judie Pierce of Rocky Mount, Virginia; son-in-law Gary E. Houpe; and a host of grandchildren, other relatives and dear friends.