William B. "Buck" Wade

William Berkley Wade was born on the 30th day of October in 1927.  He was one of five children born into the loving parentage of William Thomas and Nellie Gray (Ray) Wade.  Born and raised in Eckman, West Virginia, Buck as he was affectionately known completed his education in the McDowell County Public School System.  Buck began working at an early age, and later joined the United States Army.  After honorably serving his Country, Buck returned to Keystone, West Virginia and rejoined the work force.  He was employed as a Coal Miner at Eastern Associated Coal Company, President of Local Union No. 6196 both in Keystone, was a Mine Inspector and had served as an Arbitrator for the Union.  He was the first African American Director of the United Mine Workers of America Office in Welch, West Virginia.  After many, very successful years in the Coal Industry, he retired as the Financial Secretary of Local Union No. 6196.  Mr. Wade served two consecutive terms as Mayor of the City of Keystone.  As a youth he joined the (former) Eckman Methodist Church and later attended Mt. Chapel Baptist Church in Keystone.  Buck generously used his gifts of determination and intelligence for the welfare and well being of others.  He expressed his opinions, had a great sense of humor and enjoyed reminiscing and telling stories of the past.  Buck was an avid fan of College Football.  He showed 'team spirit' by wearing his team's colors during game time.  In addition to his parents, William and Nellie, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Mable Dean Wade; his second wife, Lynn Higginbottom Miller Wade and one son, Johnny L. Wade Sr.; three of his siblings:  Annie G. Rucker, Betty J. Vernon and Galvester Wade.  On Thursday,  February 2, 2023 in the comforts of his home in Maybuery, West Virginia, William Berkley "Buck" Wade departed this life.  He leaves many cherished memories to his only brother, Dr. Howard P. Wade of Maybeury; his devoted nephew, Galvester W. "Bill" Sr., and wife, Loretta M. Wade, his loving caregivers of the home; two grandsons, Johnny L. Wade Jr., and Jonathan Wade Sr., both of Columbus, Ohio; several grand and great-grandchildren; a host of nephews, nieces and cousins; his many friends and neighbors throughout his life time.  Mr. Wade's Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 PM, on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at the Restlawn Memorial Gardens Mausoleum Chapel, 6605 New Hope Road in Bluewell, West Virginia with the Reverend George Masterson officiating.  Entombment will follow in Restlawn Mausoleum.  Visitation will begin at 12:00 Noon.  Military Rites will be performed by the Mercer County Honor Guard.  Services entrusted to Gregory-Page Funeral Home in Welch.                

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