Willie Wade

Willie “Bill” Hoyt Wade, of Hillsboro Texas was born November 12, 1948, and passed away peacefully on August 24, 2026, surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be held Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11AM at Marshall & Marshall Funeral Directors, 2495 Corsicana Highway Hillsboro, Texas. Visitation will begin at 10AM.

Bill served his country in the United States Air Force. He was honorably discharged from active duty on March 19,1967 after four years of service. He then joined the USAFR and retired April 26, 1979, as a Sargeant.

Bill was born in Atlanta, Georgia and was a graduate of Walter F George High School. He was a natural musician who learned to play simply by listening. His favorite instrument was the guitar, especially the bass guitar, and he even crafted some of his own by hand. He also dabbled in piano, harmonica, accordion, and nearly any instrument that found its way into his hands.

Bill’s lifelong work was carpentry, beginning at an early age following in the footsteps of his father and older brother. Bill was well known for being a patient craftsman and his attention to detail furthered his career into corporate jets. He was widely known for teaching and sharing his skills. Some of his notable interior jobs were custom crafted for influential figures. He worked for Aviall, Million Air, and KC Aviation.

But above all these accomplishments, Bill was Dad, Grandpa, family, and friend. Those who knew him will remember far more than his work or the things he could build. They will remember his personality, his stories, his sense of humor, his music, and the way he made you feel so special.

He is survived by his three daughters, Stephanie Adler, Kelly (Jeremy) Fortune, and Lacey (Jeramey) Whitehouse along with his 11 grandchildren: Kaylee (Cody) Brummett, Colton Adler, Jude Fortune, Katie Whitehouse, Seth Fortune, Faith Fortune, Hope Fortune, Charity Fortune, Joy Fortune, Patience Fortune, and Serenity Fortune; and nieces and nephews, Darlene (Ken) Kelley, Laura Wade Webb, Kimberly Schneider, Tracie (Brent) Jenkins, and Phil (Bonnie) Smelley.

He was preceded in death by his parents Clyde and Leila Viola (Taylor) Wade, his brother Tom E (Lilia) Wade, and his sister, Betty Ann Smelly.

Although Bill is no longer with us, his life did not end with his passing. It continues in his children, his grandchildren, the music he made, the work of his hands, and the memories he left behind.