Ruth Wade

Ruth Wade, born on October 10, 1937, in Cleveland County, North Carolina, departed this life on January 16, 2026, at Shelby Manor in Shelby, NC. A cherished matriarch and a beacon of love and kindness, Ruth lived a life steeped in faith, family, and an unwavering spirit of generosity.

Ruth's educational journey began at Township 3 High School in Shelby, NC, from which she proudly graduated. Subsequently, she ventured into the workforce as an operator at Southern Bell in Charlotte, NC, before embracing a self-employed path that led her to work at the cafeteria of Cliffside Elementary School. It was within these roles that she not only fulfilled her professional duties but also touched countless lives with her warm smile and nurturing demeanor.

A devoted member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, Ruth exemplified her steadfast faith through her service as a Sunday School teacher and G.A. Leader. Her commitment to her church was matched only by her dedication to her family, who remained the central focus of her life. Ruth was a woman of deep kindness and gentle strength, known by all who met her for her warm heart and generous spirit. She reveled in the company of her children, grandchildren, and loved ones, devoting her life to creating cherished memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of those she held dear.

Ruth's culinary talents elevated her to legendary status among family and friends. She delighted in preparing her family’s favorite meals, ensuring that no one ever left her table hungry. Her signature coconut cake became a beloved tradition, lovingly baked for birthdays, gatherings, and anyone needing a bit of sweetness in their day. This cake was more than a dessert; it was a slice of her love, shared freely with all who gathered around her.

Traveling with her sisters brought Ruth great joy, and their laughter echoed through the years, enriching their lives with stories that would be retold for generations. At home, she found solace in her flower garden, where she took pride in nurturing vibrant blooms. Her quiet moments of creativity through drawing and coloring reflected her thoughtful approach to life, encapsulating the beauty she always sought to create.

In her passing, Ruth leaves behind a legacy rich in love, generosity, faith, and family—a legacy that will never fade. She is survived by her son, Robert Joe Wade and his wife Brenda of Rock Hill, SC; her daughter, Kim Wade Matheney and her husband David of Mooresboro, NC; her granddaughters Kristy Gravely and her husband Corey of Pickens, SC, and Danielle Wade of Gaffney, SC; her grandsons Cody Matheney and girlfriend Krys Johnson of Shallotte, NC, and Luke Matheney of Brooklyn, NY; her great-grandsons Haden Gravely and his wife Shaye of Pickens, SC, Zander Gravely of Pickens, SC, and Jacob Shillinglaw of Rock Hill, SC; and her great-granddaughter Addi Wade of Mooresboro, NC. She is also deeply mourned by her sister, Laura Lee Champion of Shelby, NC; her sister, Marie Heath of Harmony, NC; her brother, Roger Ellis and his wife Claudia of Rutherfordton, NC; her brother, Ricky Ellis and his wife Ginger of Shelby, NC; and a very special caregiver and friend, Dawn Caldwell of Cherryville, NC.

Ruth was predeceased by her father, J.C. Ellis; her mother, Edna Ellis; her brother, James Ray Ellis; and her niece, Terry Wooten.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Shelby Manor and Hospice of Cleveland County who took extraordinary care and treated her like family.  

Her presence was a blessing, and though she will be profoundly missed, the love she shared lives on in the traditions she nurtured, in the meals lovingly recalled, in the unwavering faith she demonstrated, and most of all, in the family she held so close to her heart. As we gather to honor her memory, we remain grateful for the time spent with such a remarkable woman, whose spirit will continue to inspire and guide us in the days to come.

Donations can be made to Shelby Manor at 1176 Wyke Road, Shelby NC.  Please designate Ice Cream Project on  your check.