Barbara Jean Wade

Barbara attended elementary school in Newfoundland, NJ, and graduated from Butler High School in 1959. She then attended Paterson State College where she graduated with a BA degree in elementary education in 1963. She married Robert VanHandel of Milton, NJ (d. 1978) and moved to Endicott, New York. She taught elementary school in the Union-Endicott School District for 36 years, at almost every level from pre-first to sixth grade, and she attended Binghamton University to earn her Master’s degree. She loved teaching and loved her students and colleagues.

When Barbara retired, she moved to Hobe Sound, FL and married Edward (Ned) Wade, a high school friend who she had reconnected with in 1999 at their 40th high school reunion. They later moved to Stuart, FL, where Barbara was involved in her homeowner's association, the American Association of University Women, and the Stuart Garden Club. She stayed physically and mentally active by playing bridge, tennis, golfing, kayaking, riding bicycles, and walking. She volunteered as a reading teacher at the JD Parker School, where she was appreciated for her kindness and her patience. In addition, Barbara and Ned traveled extensively, visiting friends and family throughout the US and Canada.

Barbara is survived by her husband Ned Wade, her daughter Leigh VanHandel of Vancouver BC, her sister Nancy (Ryerson) Adam of Vernon NJ, and her nephew Scott Adam of Haiku HI. She was a beloved wife, mother, and sister, and was a "grandmother" to anyone who would allow her.

A celebration of life is planned for Friday, October 21 from 5-8 pm, and a service at 11 am Saturday, both at Aycock Funeral Home, 6801 Southeast Federal Highway, Stuart FL. In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations in her name be sent to the Kane Center Council on Aging of Martin County and/or to the Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation, 1201 SE Indian Street, Stuart, FL; donation information and links may be found online for both.