Derrick Alan Wade Sr.

Remembering Derrick Alan Wade Sr. March 12, 1965 – July 21, 2025 Derrick Alan Wade Sr. lived a life defined by love, laughter, and hard work. Born on March 12, 1965, to Vera Mae and David Wade, Derrick grew up with strong family roots and a spirit that carried him through life’s many challenges. On July 21, 2025, at the age of 60, he passed away, leaving behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Derrick shared a meaningful chapter of his life with his wife, Dorothy Robinson Wade. Though they eventually separated, their bond endured. They remained lifelong friends, supporting one another through the years with mutual respect and care. Later in life, Derrick found companionship and love with Patricia Fisher, whose presence brought him comfort. Their relationship was a reminder that love can be found in many seasons of life. At the heart of Derrick’s world was his family. He was a devoted father to six children: Ira Lonzo Campbell, Patricia Ann Wade (Rayvon), Derrick Alan Wade Jr., Dorothy Ann Bonner (Troy), Ashley Janelle Portee, and Jordan Olivia Ayodeji (Savon). He also lovingly embraced his stepsons, John and Denzel Wade, as if they were his own. His children were his pride, and he poured his love, wisdom, and strength into each of them. Derrick was also a proud grandfather to a host of grandchildren: Raeson Campbell, Nashaun Wade, Dereon Wade, Aniyah Wade, Ramani Wade, Asia Wade, Deliah Wade, Caroline Bonner, Cameron Bonner, and Janelle Portee. He found joy in their laughter, their milestones, and the simple moments they shared. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vera Mae and David Wade, his sister Valerie Wade, his brother Clarence “Chubby” Terrell Wade, and his mother-in-law, Evelyn Elizabeth Robinson, whose love and influence remained close to his heart. He is survived by his brothers—Brian and Michael Wade—who stood by him through life’s highs and lows. Derrick also leaves behind a wide circle of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will remember his humor, his honesty, and his generous heart. Derrick’s journey was not without hardship. His final period of incarceration became a turning point in his life, where he found clarity, renewed purpose, and a commitment to becoming a better man for himself and his family. A man of faith, Derrick often spoke about God and the power of prayer. His belief in divine guidance carried him through life’s storms, and his advice to his children was always rooted in that faith: put God first, pray, and trust that everything will work out as it’s meant to. His words offered comfort and strength, reminding those around him that faith could carry them through anything. A hardworking man through and through, Derrick spent most of his life working with his hands. He was a skilled handyman, known for his ability to paint just about anything. Derrick approached every job with pride and determination. It was common to see him with paint on his hands—a quiet badge of honor that spoke to his dedication and work ethic. He believed in doing things right and never shied away from a task, no matter how big or small. Derrick’s story is one of growth, redemption, and love. He was a man who owned his past, embraced his present, and looked toward the future with hope. His life reminds us that even in the face of adversity, there is always room for grace, for change, and for love. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit lives on in the laughter he inspired, the love he gave, and the loyalty he showed to those he held dear.

Derrick Alan Wade Sr.

March 12, 1965 - July 21, 2025