Mitchi McKnight Wade

Mitchi McKnight Wade, a radiant soul, was born on June 24, 1978, in Columbus, Georgia. Her untimely passing on November 3, 2023, left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her and as importantly, being loved by her.

Mitchi's life was a testament to love, kindness, and unwavering dedication. She was a beacon of light from her earliest days, growing up in Columbus and graduating from Columbus High School. She went on to become an honor graduate of Georgia Tech, a testament to her intelligence and determination.

Mitchi's warm heart and boundless love touched the lives of many. As a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, she is survived by her adored husband, Travis Fitzgerald Wade, and their two daughters, Ruth 'Ruthie' McKnight Wade and Martha Mitchell Wade, who were the joys of her heart. She is also survived by her parents, Rick and Marquette McKnight, and Susan Batastini and her grandmother, Harriot Lippmann: her brother, Mac McKnight, and sister-in-law Ansley, along with their children, Paul, Thomas, and Ben McKnight; sister-in-law, Lauren Wade McMonagle, brother-in-law Ryan, and their children, Johnny, Will, Hannah, and Tate McMonagle; her in-laws, Tom and Sherry Wade, and over a dozen aunts and uncles, and almost forty cousins. Mitchi's vibrant spirit extended beyond her family and her wide circle of close friends joins her family in mourning her loss. Her caring nature and her ability to bring comfort and joy to those around her were truly exceptional. Her radiant spirit created deep bonds that will endure forever.

She dedicated herself to nurturing and guiding her daughters with unconditional love and care, considering her role as 'Mama' to be the defining purpose of her life. Ruthie and Martha will always know the depth of her love.

Mitchi was in event management at Outdoor Events where she used her masterful organizational skills to skillfully manage memorable events large and small, helping people to celebrate life moments in so many ways.

She was involved in numerous organizations, with her deepest commitment to Young Life, starting in 9th grade, continuing on through Georgia Tech as a college leader, and as an adult continued her ministry as a member of the Young Life Board and service as the Chair of that Board. She had a special passion for Young Lives, where she poured her heart into supporting young teenage mothers and loving on their babies. Mitchi’s dedication and commitment to Young Life was shared equally with husband Travis and they imbued that same passion into their daughters as well.

As the consummate ‘Mama’, Mitchi was actively involved with Brookstone School which her daughters attended, serving in a variety of roles, the latest being President of the Brookstone Parents Association.

Mitchi’s faith – a huge, abiding faith – was a beauty to witness. She had a remarkable ability to apply scriptures in a meaningful way to her own life and she frequently used scriptures to impart life lessons to her daughters. She grew up at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, where she was confirmed in the Episcopal faith, married Travis, and had both of her daughters baptized and confirmed. She remained a faithful and active member of St. Thomas. When she faced tragedies in her life, her faith sustained her. Mitchi’s family and friends admired her inner core of strength and serenity that allowed her to see and choose to trust in the good in everyone. One of her favorite bible verses, Matthew 15, described her almost perfectly. “Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Mitchi’s light always shined.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 PM, Thursday, November 9, 2023 at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 2100 Hilton Ave. Funeral services will be held at 11am, Friday, November 10, 2023 at St. Thomas.

Gifts to honor Mitchi’s life may be made to Young Life 2750 Sowega Drive Columbus, GA 31909 or St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 2100 Hilton Avenue, Columbus, GA 31906.

Mitchi Wade's legacy is one of love, faith, and service to others. A loving daughter and sister, a devoted wife, a beloved mama, Mitchi was a kind friend, a constant source of encouragement and a joy to all who knew her. In her absence, we are reminded to carry forward her message of love and kindness as a lasting tribute to a remarkable woman who graced our lives with her presence.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Wade family.