Pauline Wade

Pauline was born on December 18, 1937, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, one of 11 children in the loving family of Arthur and Irene Racine. French was her first language, spoken at home and throughout her early education at a French-speaking grammar school.

During her high school years, Pauline developed a calling to become a nurse. It took considerable convincing to get her father’s permission to study a science tract, breaking the mold of what the other women in her family were doing at that time. She graduated from St. Luke’s School of Nursing and never looked back. Her love for nursing blossomed into a career as she became an OB nurse and practiced for many years. She would return to nursing again later in life, becoming the nurse at St. Louis School for several years, dispensing many Band-Aids and kind words. Then, even later, Pauline was the nurse at MVLE, a supported employment organization, where she was well-loved.

She met the love of her life, Ron, while working at an old soda fountain in high school. They dated during her time in nursing school. At the time, he was studying engineering at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. They were married in October 1959 and moved to Washington, DC. Ron and Pauline had a special family with five children. Each with a unique journey that came with its own challenges. Caring for children with disabilities brought both deep love and moments of uncertainty. They relied on faith and each other. They raised their children to do their best, be the most they could be and know that they belong in this world. Education was a priority. They were married 54 years before Ron passed away, taken much too soon. Their children still remain close to each other today.

Pauline and Ron were mavericks of their time. Group homes and other services that we know today were not available. They, along with a small group of other parents, opened Hartwood House in 1973. This house provided respite for families of young adults with developmental disabilities. From there, Hartwood Foundation opened its first set of group homes in 1986. Pauline was the Director for several years. Hartwood now has 17 homes in the Northern Virginia area. She was a fierce and lifelong advocate for the disabled.

Family remained the priority always. Pauline had three grandchildren that she adored. They lit up her life and she was incredibly proud of their accomplishments, big and small. Each of them felt her love. There are so many wonderful memories of time together in her home, her French phrases and huge meals, as well as annual trips to the ocean that remain a family tradition still.

Pauline was a wonderful friend and neighbor. The door was always open and so many people came in, and remain touched by her generosity and kindness.

Pauline was a devout Catholic with a deep faith. She was an active, involved parishioner of St. Louis for 60 years. She was an Eucharistic Minister. Taking not only communion, but the whole family to those who could not make it to church. She was also a member of the Legion of Mary.

Pauline is survived by her children, Michael Wade, Jocelyn Folsom, Janine Wade, William (Billy) Wade and Nancy Bishop; her son-in-laws Scott Folsom and Brian Bishop.; her grandchildren Madeline Bishop, Peter Bishop and Daniel Bishop. Pauline was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald.

For those who wish, donations may be made in Pauline’s name to Hartwood Foundation, Inc. at hartwoodfoundation.com or 3701 Pender Dr, Suite 540, Fairfax, VA 22030.

A visitation will take place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10:00am at St. Louis Catholic Church, 2907 Popkins Lane, Alexandria, VA. Funeral mass will follow promptly at 11:00AM at St. Louis Catholic Church. A committal service will take place at 1:00PM Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Mount Comfort Cemetery.

For those unable to attend the funeral mass, the service will be live-streamed. You may view the live stream with the following link: https://boxcast.tv/view/funeral-mass-of-pauline-d-wade-jzsh6aak9sftmqrahkqg