Jack Allen Wade Sr.

Jack Allen Wade Sr. "Coach Wade" went to be with his Lord and Savior on May 11, 2024. A celebration of life will be held at his home church of Eastside Baptist Church in Marietta, Ga., on June 29,2024 at 1:00pm.

Jack was preceded in death by his loving wife Joe Ann and daughter Karen Cole(Phil). Jack was a faithful husband to Joe Ann and loving father. His surviving children are Connie Behensky, Barbara Stover (Barry), Betty Wilson (John) and Allen Wade (Amy). Jack was affectionately known as Papaw by his 12 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. He was known by his many players and students as 'Coach.'

Jack was born on July 23, 1927, in Clinton Tennessee. He attended the University of Tennessee on a football scholarship for a year where he played even as a freshman before joining the U.S. Army. He went to Japan for 2 years during the occupation after WWII. Upon returning, he joined his best friend and brother Glenn Wade at Carson Newman College in Tennessee. He played football, baseball, basketball and track. He not only captained some of the teams but was later inducted into their Hall of Fame. Jack went on to earn his Masters and Specialist degrees in education. Three of his 5 children also became educators. Jack then became a great high school football coach and administrator.

He was known to his players and students as a man of principle with Christian values. He kept in touch with many players throughout his lifetime. After coaching he became the principal at Sprayberry High School. He retired as an elementary school principal after 32 years in education. He then worked several years part time as a bailiff.

Though almost 97 years of age at his passing, Jack's mind was sharp. His family members often thought his memory was better than theirs. He was known to his family and many friends as a man of integrity with a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye. He enjoyed watching sports with his family and friends. Jack was a passionate fisherman and enjoyed having fish fries for his Sunday School class, his family and friends. He was a lifelong learner and always kept notes, files and articles near his side. Though we all miss him much we know he is enjoying a great reunion with his family and friends in heaven...where there might just be a grand fish fry.