Vernon L. Wade, Sr

Vernon Lee Wade, Sr. was born on March 23, 1926 to the late Nancy Carlton Wade and Archie Wade, in Rayville, LA, Richland Parrish. He had two sisters, one older, Azalea (Dunlap) and Willie Ruth (Scott) the youngest. He attended elementary school and high school in Rayville and during his high school years he would work summers in Texas to help support his mother and sisters. He graduated from Colored High School May 1944. Vernon entered the U.S. NAVY and served in World War II from June 1944 and was Honorably Discharged in April 1946. After leaving the NAVY, he attended Southern University from September 1946 until January 1948 where he studied Physics and Chemistry while majoring in Industrial Arts. He also attended Missouri Valley Institute from January to June 1949. Vernon married Artie Made Walker June 22, 1947. To this marriage there were four children: Delores Patricia, Vernon Lee Jr., Anita Pauline and Reginald Erwin. After relocating to St. Louis, MO., Vernon began his career with the U.S. Department of the Army, Records Center. In July 1953, he was transferred to Indianapolis to continue his duties until his retirement, as a Supervisor, from the then named Fort Benjamin Harrison Finance Center in 1981. Vernon volunteered in his community and served as President of the Haughville Community Council during the 1960's and 1970's. Even though Vernon was ill a long time he could always be counted on for “down home” advise and a good political discussion. Vernon departed this life Tuesday, July 17, 2018 at the age of 92. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 58 years, Artie Mae , his eldest son, Vernon Jr., and his sisters, Azalea and Willie Ruth. He leaves behind to cherish his memories his daughters Delores and Anita , his son Reginald, his grandchildren – Desmond Wade, Demon Buckner, Kellie and Korie Wade, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, special friends and acquaintances. He will be truly missed.