Will A Wade

Will Andrew Wade, known as "Sonny Shannon" was born on December 3, 1937, to the late Burman Wade Sr. and the late Hattie Mae Shannon. He peacefully entered eternal rest on September 7, 2025, surrounded by his devoted and loving family. 

Will was a proud graduate of Pyle High School, Class of 1956.  He was a member of Bold Pilgrim Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon, Treasurer, and member of the Men’s Choir. He loved the Lord, a family man who was known for his unwavering Christian faith. Will dedicated his life, not only to his church and family but also to his community.  

Will was deeply engaged as a civic leader in both Kaufman and Terrell, Texas. His many contributions included serving with the F.H.A. Leadership (1960), Boy Scout Master Leader (1960), a member of the committee that created the Kaufman County Theater (1978), and he was an active participant in the Kaufman County Youth    Development Program (1980). He was also a committee member of F&M National Bank Community Development (1994), advisor for grant programs   with the    Kaufman City Improvement Development Committee (1982), and chairman of the Kaufman School Planning and Development  Committee, overseeing Title I & II Learning Programs (1980). Will served on the Kaufman Cemetery Association (1984–2000) and was a board member during its integration. He was a member and officer of the Kaufman Heritage Society (2005–2010) and played an instrumental role in revitalizing Shannon Park. Will was also a member of the Pyle High School Alumni Association, contributor to library exhibits, and the Kaufman Historical Commission's Archaeology Department. He was a member of the Terrell 2000 Organization (1998–2000), a graduate of the Terrell Police Academy (1998), and elected to serve on the T.C.P.A.A. (1999–2001). Will was a member of   the Terrell Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association and a local business owner of S&W Cafe in Kaufman during the 1950s–1980s. 

Will retired after more than 30 years of dedicated service at Vistawall/Butler in Terrell, Texas. His entrepreneurial spirit and love for people were also expressed through his work as the owner of S&W Cafe.  His business was a vibrant gathering spot in the community, where people came together to enjoy great food, fun, and  entertainment.

Will had a deep passion for photography, videography, and antique collecting. He found joy in capturing family memories and preserving the history of the communities he loved. In his early years, he enjoyed writing music. His favorite    expressions were: “In spite of,” “Tighten up,” “Stick together,” “In these days and times” and “Strive to be the best.” Will always made it a priority to be there for his children and grandchildren. He always attended their events, games, and extracurricular activities, cheering us on and offering his support.  When it came to entertainment, he enjoyed watching Westerns and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys.

Will had a warm personality and a beautiful smile. To those who knew him best, he was a man who loved to talk, greeted everyone with kindness, and never met a stranger. His compassionate heart, generous spirit, and willingness to serve left    behind memories that continue to Inspire those he touched." 

As the eldest of fifteen children, Will shared a deep bond with his brothers and sisters and loved them dearly. His love for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was extraordinary—they were his pride and joy. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Georgia Mae Wade; his children, Byron Deno Wade and LaVearne Wilson; his parents, Burman Wade Sr. and Hattie Mae Shannon; stepfather, Thomas Shannon Sr.; his brothers, Herman Wade, Alton Wade Sr., Charles Wade Sr., and Walter Wade; and his sisters, Shirley Pierce, Azell Compton, Gloria Brooks, and Lida Jones. 

He leaves to cherish his memory: Daughters: Denice Wade of Kaufman, TX; Loretta (James) Hunter of Kemp, TX; and Lola (Mark) Mosley of Rowlett, TX. Son: Shawn (Rochelle) Wade of Mesquite, TX. Grandchildren: Marsha Baldwin, Stacie Wilson, Bryan Hunter, Jamie Hunter, Gregory (Shun’Drea) Cawthon, and Kayla Cawthon. Great-grandchildren: Nichole Baldwin, Nick Baldwin Jr., Carter Mosley, Kobe Hunter, Xavier Hunter, Zaiden Cawthon, Jamia Hunter, Ziyah Cawthon, and Zayne Cawthon. Brothers: Thomas (Mary) Shannon Jr. of Dallas, TX; Berman (Dora) Wade Jr. of Killeen, TX; Norman (Pamela) Wade of New Boston, TX; William (Paula) Beasley of Hooks, TX; Sisters: Eddie (Lawrence) Sadler of New Boston, TX; and Asa (Terry) Scroggins of Hooks, TX; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

Will Andrew Wade’s life was a testament to faith, family, service, love, and legacy. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were blessed to know him and the many lives he impacted. 

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