Obituary – John P. Wade

John Paul Wade, 49, passed away on November 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

John Paul Wade was born on January 27, 1976, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, the son of Paul Eugene Wade and Paulette Elaine Cross. He grew up in Licking, Missouri. After graduating from Licking High School, he went on to pursue a life-long career in plumbing, to which he dedicated himself for 33 years.

John Paul was devoted to offering guidance, love, laughs, and overall good vibes. He loved spending time playing sports like softball, basketball and tennis. He was a very spiritual man who loved and portrayed God’s purpose through his life.

He is survived by his children, Dante William Alexander Wade (22), and Joshawa Phoenix Wade (17); his father, Paul Wade; his sisters, Jennifer Susan Hill Bales (58), and Melissa Ann Downing (55); as well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will miss him dearly. He is preceded in death by his mother, Paulette Elaine Cross. (Deceased February 24, 2022)

A funeral service to celebrate John Paul Wade’s life will be held at 10 a.m. on December 6, 2025, at Licking Christian Church, 318 N. Main St., Licking, Mo., with Mr. Rick Mosher officiating. A visitation will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Licking Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John Paul Wade’s name. Arrangements entrusted to Fox Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.foxfh.net.