Robert "Bob" Neal Wade

As his brother, it pains me to say that Robert Neal (“Bob”) Wade passed away the weekend of May 17, 2020 at the age of 67.  We should not mourn Bob’s passing, but acknowledge the fact he is now at peace, with an opportunity to be reunited with his parents.  

Bob was born and grew-up in Burlington, NC, attending Walter M. Williams High School, graduating with the class of 1971.  He attended Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, NC graduating in 1975 with a double major in Political Science and Economics.

That only tells part of Bob’s story.  In his early years, his passion was music, accomplishing a number of years at the piano including impressive recitals.  That also led to his love of recorded music.  He loved listening to all kinds of music and especially music of the day such as the Beatles and Rolling Stones.  He grew his collection over the years and attended many live concerts.

Bob also enjoyed his work including summer jobs in textiles around Burlington, NC.  After college he trained in industrial engineering and provided management decision support for a number of companies.  In the past 20 years, he prided himself in excelling at customer support with Shelba D. Johnson Trucking, Inc. in Thomasville, NC.

Bob’s devotion to his parents was outstanding and he became particularly close with his Father Marvin Garrett (Buddy) Wade after our mother, Kathleen Perry (Kitty) Wade died in 1991.  During a number of years of ‘Buddy’s’ failing health, Bob provided significant support to his Dad.  At the same time, he also enjoyed our Father’s relationship as a WWII Veteran with the American Legion in Burlington, becoming a member of the local chapter.  “Buddy” died in 2012.

Bob liked traveling and in the past few years was able to go to Las Vegas, North Myrtle Beach and Banff, Alberta, Canada with family.  He even made an excursion to France and Spain, visiting Euro Disney while on that trip.

We thank Bob’s medical support personnel from High Point Regional Hospital and Baptist Hospital in Winston Salem for helping him during the past several years. We also thank his many friends, his neighbors and work ‘Family’ at Shelba D. Johnson Trucking.  Bob’s immediate survivors include his brother Joe and wife Marie and two nephews, Joseph and Daniel Wade. 

Due to Corona Virus, a memorial will be planned later at Shelba D. Johnson Trucking with a grave-side interment to be announced.  In lieu of flowers, any donations to the Walter B. Ellis American Legion Post 63 in Burlington, NC are appreciated.  Their address is:

Walter B. Ellis/American Legion Post 63

2488 Moran Street

Burlington, NC  27215 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.