Wardell Norman Broady Sr.

Wardell Norman Broady. Sr., a Maryland resident for over 45 years, at the age of 92, passed at the nursing home where he had been residing on Sunday, August 3. Born in Lynchburg, Virginia on August 27, 1932, he was the only son of the late Lelia and William Broady.

Wardell lost his mother at an early age. As his father was in the military, they relocated frequently throughout his childhood. Eventually, he settled in Washington, DC, where he attended and graduated from high school. Possessing a natural gift for art and a love of drawing.

Wardell's creative talents inspired him to pursue a career where he could put these skills to practical use. He enrolled in a dental trade school where Wardell excelled in fabricating dental prosthetics and quickly became known for his meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. After graduation, he was employed with Rothstein Dental Laboratories and, under their tutelage. honed his craft. He worked for Rothstein for many years before establishing his own dental lab, Broady Dental Studio, where he remained until retiring due to health reasons. His health declined further over the years due to complications from diabetes, which led to the loss of his sight and partial hearing. These changes profoundly impacted his independence and daily life leading him to depend on others, yet he faced each day with enduring faith.

More than work, family was important to him. The best gift he could ever receive was his wife, Rhoda. On a warm, sunny afternoon in Washington, DC, while driving along Georgia Avenue after work, Wardell noticed Rhoda stepping off a bus. He was immediately captivated by her presence. He pulled over and offered her a ride, but she politely declined. Undeterred, he followed her in his car, hoping to continue their conversation. That chance encounter became a love story enduring until her passing on April 5, 2009.

Wardell said Rhoda was a wonderful wife and the heart of his world, filling his life with laughter and gentle kindness. Together, they loved to entertain, dance, and listen to jazz and Motown records playing on the radio, jukebox, or record player as they danced to the tunes. They cherished family gatherings where stories and laughter flowed. Their union blessed them with a son, Wardell Broady, Jr., and two stepdaughters, Yvonne Wells-Smith and Dr. Janice Allison, all of whom shared in the warmth and joy their parents brought to every celebration.

Wardell always had a great love for life and hoped that he would be remembered for that. He loved the casino and often left with winnings while others lost. He enjoyed tennis, golfing, and bowling, always embracing the thrill of friendly competition. Wardell was also a collector of different types of alcohol and took great pride in his basement bar. The bar mimicked a lively nightclub, complete with a pool table, jukebox, and slot machines and appropriate lights. He loved hosting family and friends, where laughter echoed and music played from the jukebox, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of his favorite nightclubs. The warmth and energy of these gatherings brought joy not only to Wardell but to everyone who joined him.

Wardell took great pride in his membership with Charles Datcher Lodge No. 15 F & A.Μ., P.H.A., a historically significant African American Masonic lodge dedicated to brotherhood, charity, and community leadership. He also belonged to Prince Hall Chapter No. 5, F & A.M., P.H.A., where he served as a Royal Arch Mason, cherishing the sense of fellowship and tradition these organizations fostered. Wardell's commitment to these groups meant more to him than regalia or titles. He was always quick to lend a helping hand to fellow members and freely shared wisdom with younger generations, encouraging them to pursue lives of purpose and integrity.

More than anything else, Wardell's faith was a guiding force in his life. He loved the Bible and found comfort in its scriptures, frequently attending church when his health allowed.

As Wardell's health continued to decline, he moved to assisted living facilities and finally to a long-term nursing home, where he eventually passed away. Throughout all these transitions, he never stopped believing in and trusting God. Wardell remained a faithful man, always praying for his family and others experiencing difficult times.

Wardell leaves behind to cherish his memory: daughters, Yvonne Wells-Smith (William), Retired Lt. Col. Dr. Janice Allison; one son, Wardell Broady, Jr.; five grandchildren - Collin Wells (Allison); Shamia Broady; Kayla Broady; Isaiah Broady; Micah Ware-Broady; three great-grandchildren-Jet Broady; Juel Agyepong; and Ava Broady. He is also survived by two brothers-in-law William Brown (Celestine) and George Richo (Stephanie) and a host of family and friends.