Thomas "Jerry" Wade

Thomas Jarred Wade, known to all as Jerry, was born in Henderson, on Nov. 24, 1943. 

Jerry traveled around the United States with his parents and his three sisters, Jan, Joanna, and Cindy. His most notable moments of his youth were working as a migrant strawberry farmer, working at the traveling circus, playing ice hockey in Canada, riding a wave on his surfboard, and taking an occasional boat out for a joy ride. 

He graduated from Inglewood High School and continued his education at El Camino Community College where he earned 33 hours of F’s. He decided to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force where he served for four years and was honorably discharged and returned to Austin. He met the love of his life, Margie Wade, after he whisked her away from his best friend, and they were married at Marak Church on May 13, 1967. 

Jerry was diligent and always went after what he wanted. He talked his way into The University of Texas and eventually St. Edward’s University where he somehow graduated with a 3.94. He went on to have a thriving career working for Sisters of Charity and was the Director of Information Systems for St. Joseph’s Hospital in Houston. He retired in 2003 after 23 years and vowed to spend his days golfing, sipping coffee on the porch, reading, woodworking, and spending time with family.

He was humble, loyal, a good listener and a great storyteller. Jerry was always up for some good competition. He was committed to a wonderful life for Margie and his girls, and Margie’s favorite thing about him was that he learned to dance, just for her. 

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Margie Wade; his daughter, Christa Konderla and husband Joe; his daughter, Kathy Allen and husband Jason; and he was the proud PawPaw of Tyson Turner, Kamdon Turner, Sofia Allen, Jacob Allen, Brazos Allen, Beckett Allen, Hudson Allen and Maris Allen; numerous nieces and nephews, family and friends. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, John T. and Pauline Wade; and his sister, Joanna Goodwin and husband Bob. 

Thank you to all of those who walked this road with us for the last 11 years as he slowly lost his ability to speak and take care of himself. We are especially thankful to our private caregivers and his doctors, nurses, and caregivers from Hospice Brazos Valley. We are so thankful for the holy work that you do. 

Services were held on Sept. 8 at Sts Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Marak with burial following. Marek-Burns-Laywell Funeral Home of Cameron was in charge of arrangements.