A life well lived. Our sweet, loving father passed on to his final resting place on December 21, 2021. At 97 years young, Dad was proud to say he still had all of his original parts. The last month was rough with hospitalization and rehabilitation, but alas his heart finally gave out. A final gift to his daughters was an entertaining evening the night he was leaving the hospital as he recited long known poems “St. Peter at the Gate” and “The Old Violin” perfectly.
Born on August 25, 1924, to James and Fannie Martin at home on a small farm in Redhouse,MD, Wade was the 5th child of eventually six. Being the first boy in the family, he was soon the one to run to the spring so the family had “running” water. Dad would say he went to the school of hard knocks as formal education only took him to 11th grade. He went on to work in several jobs before deciding to go into business for himself. Owning Dooley-Martin appliance sales and service for 40 plus years, he served all of Palm Beach County. Wade had many repeat customers who valued his integrity, work ethic, honesty and excellent workmanship.
In his mid- 20’s, Wade decided the winters were too much in MD and WV and migrated to FL with his travel trailer stopping at the first warm place that sounded right “Lazyland Trailer Court”. Through a mutual friend he met and married his life partner, Phyllis Borden. They had a rich marriage filled with family, friends and a committed church life for 48 years when Phyllis passed. Wade carried on with his life by continuing to travel the US in his motor home, completing their goal of touching on all 50 states. His favorite place to hang out for many summers was on the farm of his brother-in-law in WV where many extended family still live. His major travel accomplishment was making his dream to drive the Allan Highway to Alaska come true in 1994.
Dad was well known in his church communities as a leader and helper holding many positions such as Trustee, Usher, Youth Leader and Sunday School Teacher. He was also a member of Gideon’s International. Wade led his family and others by his good Christian example.
He is predeceased by his wife, Phyllis; his baby son, James; 4 sisters-Violet, Mary Frances, Deane and Ilene.
Surviving family are brother, Harold(Algretta); daughters, Judy(John) and Carolyn(Charles); grandchildren, Christopher and Jennifer(Isamu).
There will be a future Celebration of Life. For those wishing to make donations in Wade’s honor, they may be sent to Gideon’s International.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.royalpalmfuneralhome.com for the MARTIN family.
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