I knew George back in high school. From the beautifully worded obituary I can tell he stayed true to the person he was back then. He was always very kind, thoughtful and caring person and I’m sorry to hear of his passing. I wish the family peace.

Message that went out to Crutchfield:

To our Crutchfield team,

I am writing to share some very sad news with you all. It is with a heavy heart that we must inform you of the passing of one of our former employees, George Wade, who worked with us for almost 30 years and made a significant impact on every department in our company. Among his many accomplishments, he helped found our Web Sales team. Later, his passion was for process improvement. He elegantly combined his mastery of data analysis with his easy-going, compassionate approach to resolving complex issues. He was the perfect example of a life-long learner. 

George was more than just a colleague to many of us. He truly listened and would remember details from a conversation, months or even years later that showed how closely he was paying attention. His dedication, hard work, and positive attitude were truly inspiring and left a lasting impression on all of us. He played a crucial role in our success and helped shape the company into what it is today. George was a wonderful human to his core and anyone who knew him was better for it.

It is our understanding that there will likely be a celebration of life event honoring George sometime in the spring of 2026. We will pass along more details when they are available.

Thank you for taking the time to read this message. Let's remember and celebrate the brilliant and meaningful contributions as well as the positive influence George had on all of us.

Nathan Hayes
HR Executive, General Counsel
Crutchfield Corp.

George was a grand human. It was wonderful to know him and have him in my orbit in the '80's. Talented musician, gentleman, chef, and all around kind, generous person, I was so happy to hear of his marriage to Jen B. who made him so very happy and fulfilled.  I know the angels are throwing down with him as he is welcomed home. I'm deeply sorry and know he is profoundly missed all ready! Much LOVE, Jen!

By rights I should not be this distressed by George's passing.  We met at his sister Kathryn's in 1991, hung out in Blacksburg a few times, visited once in 1995 and visited once in 2015.  I lack the years of constant presence many of you had with him and although we are both musicians, we never played together.

But the grief, passion, admiration and gratitude that have overflowed in George's direction from his and Jenn's and Not Shakespeare's and others' Facebook pages these past few weeks:  That is something special.  I don't think I have ever witnessed it before, the sheer magnitude of it; the raw, pure love for this man, for all the reasons I already knew about plus others I only discovered as the magic of social media reunited us and I glimpsed all the extra goodness he never took credit for.

George, I am honored to have walked alongside you for a season of our lives.  Wherever you are now, it is definitely a better place than before you got there.  💗

My condolences to Jenn, family,  and friends. May George forever rest in peace.  He will be missed by so many! Glad me and my son had the chance to know him.

Jenn being mauled/loved by my boy dawgs.  So many happy memories and so glad I got to meet George through her and make happy memories.

George's fav cherry pie.  Wish I could bake him hundreds more.

Karaticizing with Jenn, most fun and positive person ever!

The music world is a little less cool with George’s passing. I looked up to George and Not Shakespeare when I was a young kid getting started in the local music scene. He was always kind and accepting and supportive. When I came to Blacksburg, I found an incredibly non-competitive music scene to grow up in.  That was in large part due to George and his bandmates. What I didn’t realize was how uncommon that was. George was a big part of that.

I am also thankful that we connected on social media as I think I’ve had more meaningful conversations with him through Facebook than we did crossing paths at gigs. As dubious as this platform is, I’m glad I got to know George on a more personal level in that space. 

Much love and support to Jenn and all of his loved ones and bandmates. ❤️

George, you were the absolute sun and stars for my sweet friend, Jenn. I admired your love for each other from afar. You clearly lived a genuine and inspirational life. I send love and support to Jenn and the rest of your family and friends during this difficult time. <3

My condolences, Jenn. I worked at The Record Exchange in Roanoke and sometimes at the Blacksburg store when Not Shakespeare was recording music and performing in the area. I remember we sold their cassette and I seem to recall that there was also a vinyl EP. I had the privilege of interacting with George and the other band members often and  enjoyed when they visited the store and listening to their music. Those were great times and memories and I treasure them. Rest in Peace, George. We will miss you.

George produced the Demo Tape for my band, Digital witchcraft, and then took the tape to SXSW to shop it a round. as he said once during the sessions, "What I really care about is the music, thats what matters" and that stuck with me. George was a man who cared and was passionate about his interests and a honorable and deeply good friend. My life is far better for having known him.  I will miss our conversations on messenger, and will always remember how he lived life to its fullest even under difficult circumstances. He is an example for us all, and definitely made this world a better place by his presence.   I will not forget him.

OBITUARY

George Leroy Wade

30 December, 1959 – 18 November, 2025

Teague Funeral Service

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