Robert Beam Wade

1935 - 2024

Robert Beam Wade

April 8, 1935 - May 3, 2024

Mebane, North Carolina - In Loving Memory of Robert Beam Wade

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Robert Beam Wade on May 3, 2024. This loss is profoundly felt by many in the Durham community, where Robert was known and loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. While we mourn his departure, we find solace in the belief that he continues to watch over us, just as he did during his time on Earth. We are certain that he was welcomed into the heavenly skies with open arms by those who went before him.

Robert's early years were spent in Hurdle Mills and Prospect Hill, where his family lived and worked on tobacco farms. From a young age, Robert was known for his strong work ethic. Depending on the season and the demands of the crops, he also found employment at Crabtree Store and Lindsay's Store in Hurdle Mills.

His life changed forever when he met the love of his life, Dorothy. After two years of courtship, they married and made Mebane their home. Together, they built a life filled with love and family, welcoming two sons, Dale and Roger.

Professionally, Robert was a man of many talents. He dedicated 15 years to White's Furniture Co. in Mebane and served in various capacities, including at the Mebane Police Department, McPherson's Hospital, Randolph County Hospital, the North Carolina State Fair, and UNC football games, where he worked as a security officer.

In 1971, Robert began his career with Texaco Inc., a journey that eventually led him to fulfill his entrepreneurial spirit by opening his own full-service station, "Wade's Texaco U-Haul" at 1911 Guess Road in Durham in 1983. Robert's entrepreneurial ventures also included Wade's Wrecker Service, which he founded in 1975. His business supported U-Haul hotline calls, provided towing services for the Highway Patrol, and handled rotation calls for the City of Durham Police Department-services that continue to this day under the stewardship of his son, Roger.

Robert's son, Roger, began working alongside him at the age of eight, assisting after school and on weekends. Today, Roger continues to run the thriving family business, carrying forward the legacy of hard work and dedication that Robert instilled in him. Over the years, Robert's brothers, Randy and Harold, as well as other family members, joined the business, contributing to its growth and success.

Robert was not only a successful businessman but also a man of great honor and humility. He never met a stranger and was always eager to share his stories with anyone who would listen. His contributions to the Durham community were numerous, and he helped countless customers and individuals over the years. Robert will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

As we reflect on the past few months, it still feels as though Robert left us only yesterday. The Wade family would like to express our heartfelt thanks for the support, friendship, and patronage that you have shared with us at Wade's Texaco U-Haul over the years.

Sincerely,

The Wade Family