Mr. Richard Jerome Wade, Jr. Obituary in Atlanta at Grissom-Clark Funeral Home

Obituary For Mr. Richard Jerome Wade, Jr.

In profound sorrow we announce the passing of Mr. Richard Jerome Wade, Jr. Celebration of Life will be Thursday, March 6, 2025, 11:00 am at Central United Methodist Church 501 Mitchell Street SW Atlanta, GA 30314. Interment will be March 10, 2025, Union Cemetery Actuation 3349 Olentangy River Rd Columbus, Ohio. Viewing will be Thursday, March 06, 2025, 9:00am at the church until the hour of service. Grissom-Clark Funeral Home.

Richard Jerome Wade Jr., a native of Columbus, Ohio, and a long-time resident of Atlanta, Georgia, was born on November 15, 1947. He was the second of six children born to Richard Jerome Wade Sr. and Frances Jones Wade. From this union, six children were born: Diana, Richard Jr., George, Frank (deceased), Joseph, and Regina.

His early education was in the Franklin County Public School System, where he received his high school diploma from East High School in 1966. His college education was at Central State University, where he received his Bachelor's Degree. Richard's military service was in the army as a 1st lieutenant during the Vietnam War.

He later moved to Atlanta, attended Atlanta University, now Clark Atlanta University. He received his MBA in Accounting in 1974, and became employed as an auditor at the United States General Accounting Office.

While in Atlanta, he met, dated, and later married Bernadette Shepard. From this union, Richard Jerome Wade III was born. They decided to search for a home church. After visiting a few other churches, Mrs. Francine Henderson recommended they visit her church, Central United Methodist Church. At that time, Reverend Joseph E. Lawry was the pastor. Richard became an active and long-time member. He faithfully served on many committees, including One Church, One Child, Finance, Church Council, Men's Bible Class, Kitchen Staff (ie. Sunday breakfast and the Saturday Youth Enrichment Program Lunch) and served on the Parking Ministry. In 1997, Richard and Trae travelled to the Dominican Republic with a group of volunteers to work in the Orphanage Outreach Program. It was a very rewarding experience for both.

Richard transitioned from this life at his home in East Point, GA, on Sunday, February 23, 2025. He is survived by his children, Richard Jerome Wade III (Arlendre'); Carmille Simpson; Ahmad J. Burse Sr. (Kamarie), four grandchildren: Richard Jerome Wade IV; Jubril Abdulazeez; Corrial Marquise Simpson; Jamal K. Burse; Ahmad J. Burse Jr; Nadiyah Y. Burse; five great-grandchildren, and three devoted godchildren: Myron Jerome Kiel; Brittany Lawrence Gibson and Raven Hines.

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Richard and I worked together for more than 10 years at GAO on projects supporting medical care for veterans and service-members. He was someone who consistently had excellent ideas to solve the problems we faced on our projects. I learned a lot from him during my GAO career. I'm so sorry that I learned of his passing too late to attend his services. Blessings to all his loved ones.

Cynthia Forbes

My condolences to Richard's family. I have fond memories of him from when I started at GAO. He teased me about wearing "Chicago-style" clothes in the South. He was kind and funny. May he rest in peace.

Lisa Moore

I remember "Uncle Richard", whom we were told had a very fun-loving Nickname of "Bozo" back in the day, when he and my Dad (Ricardo) were "roomies" in college! They undoubtedly had a great many adventures and remained good friends and true Brothers in Christ. Our prayers are for Peace and Healing with his family and friends around the country as we all take pause to mourn the passing of a truly Jovial 'Ol Soul who's smile and laughter was infectious to everyone around him!!!... Be Blessed!!!

Tony Smith

My condolences to the family of Richard Wade. Richard was a fellow church member of mine at Central UMC. Richard was a dedicated servant of the church. I am particularly grateful for the many hours he spent volunteering in support of the Youth Enrichment Program (YEP) at the Central. Richard always made it a point to allow YEP youth to earn a few dollars doing work around his house. His service to the youth did not end at the church. I have always enjoyed working with Richard and I have a enormous amount of respect for Richard. R.I.P Richard, you have earned your just reward. You have been a true servant of our Lord.

Bob Horne

My deepest condolences go out to the Wade family. May God's grace and love comfort you during this difficult time.

Rebecca MClain

Richard was always full of life and joy!! I had the opportunity to work with him for many years. I know he will be cooking ribs in heaven (LOL) :-)!!! R.I.P. Richard!!
Renee Driskell (GAO)

Renee Driskell (GAO)

I offer my sincere condolences and prayers to the family of Richard Wade. I have had the pleasure of knowing Richard over 45 years and he was always fun loving and good spirited. He will truly be missed by all who knew him. R.I.H.

Samuel Goss

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Grissom-Clark Funeral Home | Atlanta, GA