Kenneth “Kenny” Michael Wade 

Published 5:00 am Saturday, October 19, 2024

Kenneth “Kenny” Michael Wade, 63, of Mauriceville, Texas, passed away on Oct. 13, 2024, in Beaumont.

A memorial service will be 2 p.m., Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.

Visitation will be from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.

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Born in San Pedro, Calif., on Aug. 19, 1961, he was the son of J.W. Wade and Sarah Riggins Wade. For approximately 20 years, Kenny served as a dedicated umpire, contributing his time and expertise to local baseball games, while also traveling to partake in out-of-state tournaments. Through the crack of the bat and the cheers of the crowd, Kenny found joy and camaraderie, creating lasting memories both on and off the field. Kenny’s interests extended beyond the diamond; he was a devoted fan of the intricate world of Star Trek, a universe that sparked his imagination and curiosity. He had a deep appreciation of music and could often be found listening to his favorite tracks. Kenny enjoyed the peaceful pursuits of golfing and fishing, often seeking solace and connection with nature during his time on the greens or by the water’s edge. A staunch supporter of LSU athletics and a lifelong fan of the New Orleans Saints, Kenny’s enthusiasm for sports was infectious, celebrating victories and enduring defeats with the same fervor and unwavering loyalty. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, J.W. and Sarah Wade; his sister, Sarah Bryan, and his brother, John Wade.

He is survived by his loving wife of 12 years, Leslie Smith Wade of Mauriceville; his sons, Brandon Michael Wade of Baton Rouge, La., and Jacob Ryan Wade and wife, Melinda, of Lacassine, La.; his daughter, Lily May Smith of Mauriceville; his grandchildren, Taylor, Weston, Skylar, Walker, and Vivian; his siblings, Susan Wade Cantell and husband, Fred, of New River, Ariz., Sharon Trevino and husband, Steven, of Merryvilles, Wash., James Wade and wife, Jane, of Arizona, and Bonnie Wade of Placerville, Calif.; his sister-in-law, Jenny Wade of Marion, and numerous other loving nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.

Cremation will be held under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.