R. Lee Wade died peacefully of natural causes on Saturday, November 23, 2024, in the presence of her family in her apartment at Otterbein Senior Living in Granville, Ohio. Lee was 98 years old, born on February 3, 1926, in Smithville Ohio to Taylor and Wilma Gilbert.
Lee is survived by her son Michael and his wife Eileen of York, Pennsylvania, her daughter Corinne and her partner Laura of Alexandria, Ohio, her grandson Andrew of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Sister-in-law’s, brother-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Her husband, the love of her life, Roy L Wade died in their home in Orrville, Ohio in 2013. Her two brothers Elmer Gilbert and Daniel Gilbert are also deceased
Lee and Roy were married April 17, 1946, and resided in Orrville, Ohio for his entire life. Lee moved into an independent living apartment in the retirement community in Granville in 2015, near her daughter.
Lee enjoyed her family, friends, cooking, photography, music, art, sewing, water sports, nature, extensive travel and helping others.
Lee was frequently involved with family, friends, neighbors, and community. She retired from Buehler’s after 29 years of service. During her life she was involved Brownies, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, mother study club, Extension homemakers Council, women’s Fireman’s auxiliary, Wayne County Board of elections, member of Orrville professional and businesswomen, member Orrville evergreen garden club, and awarded mother of the year 1968 by the Mother Study Club.
A Memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at Gresser funeral home in Orrville, Ohio. Visitation is from 12 noon to 1pm with a service at 1 o’clock. Refreshments and social gathering will be held afterwards at United Church of Christ in Orrville.
She is treasured and dearly missed by her family and friends.
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