James Alvin Wade of Vinton passed into new life on July 15, 2017. His parents, Dunzmore and Ruhamah Wade of Jordantown in Bedford County, preceded him in that passage. He spent the last 53 years of his earthly journey with his beloved wife, Mary Jane Wheeler Wade.

Mr. Wade was the loving father of Kathy Wade Craft, Tondalaya Wade VanLear, and James Jarrett, the caring grandfather of David Craft, Eryn VanLear, Katie Poulsen, and Sara VanLear, and the delighted great-grandfather of Hannah Craft, Auden Wolfe, Judah Poulsen, and Rèmy Poulsen.

Love of family and country were the center of Mr. Wade’s life. He served in the U. S. Navy during World War II, in the Pacific theater, and supported the strength of this nation and its democracy throughout the rest of his life in word and deed. He lived the values of friendship, community, and commitment he gained from his parents, the people of Jordantown and Shady Grove Baptist Church, and his faith. Making music with his guitar and gardening were his daily joys, and he blessed many with them, sharing good food and song and laughter.

Mr. Wade’s family will celebrate his life at 2:00 p.m. on July 18, 2017 at Lotz Funeral Home in Vinton. His family will receive friends prior to the service at 1:00 p.m.

 Service Information