Victoria "Vickie" Brafford Wade

Born on September 28, 1942, in Conway, South Carolina, in Horry County, Vickie spent most of her life in Raleigh, NC, where she poured her heart into her family, friends, and faith.

A devoted homemaker and tireless volunteer, Vickie was especially active in her church community. Her love for Jesus and the Bible was unmistakable, shaping not only her own life but the lives of everyone she touched. She was known for her steadfast faith and her joyful, welcoming spirit.

Vickie had many passions—she loved playing tennis, golf, and bridge, always with a competitive edge and a ready laugh. She was equally happy sharing coffee and conversation, offering encouragement, or listening with genuine care. Above all, she was known for her unwavering belief in God’s promises and His faithfulness.

She is survived by her daughter Debbey and her children, Alex and Ella; her son John and John’s daughter Celina; and her son-in-law Jorge Barcenas and his sons Emanuel and Tomas. She is also survived by her sisters Shirley Ann Johnson of Chesapeake, Virginia, and Annie Faye Braxton of Pittsboro, North Carolina.

Vickie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Henry Wade, Jr. (“Bill”); her mother Annie Mae Hewett Brafford; her father London Hadley Brafford; her sister Edna Brafford Scotton; her brothers London Hadley Brafford Jr. and Chester Lee Brafford; and her cherished daughter Denise Wade Barcenas.

A funeral service will be held on July 2nd at North Haven Church:

📍 6620 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC 27615

🕛 12:15–1:00 PM – Visitation

🕐 1:00 PM – Celebration of Life Service

Following the service, she will be laid to rest at Raleigh Memorial Park:

📍 7501 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27612

Please note: There will not be a viewing, as most friends and family were blessed to see Vickie recently at her husband Bill Wade’s celebration of life. The family kindly asks that you remember her just as she was—radiant, faithful, and full of love. Also, there will not be a formal funeral procession to Memorial Park, as this wasn’t something Dad was fond of. We welcome everyone to join us there at their own pace if you wish.

From her daughter, Debbey: In Mom’s memory, I invite everyone to try to be the best version of themselves. Let’s follow Jesus’ example of being loving, kind, and caring for others before ourselves. Let’s love all people—no matter their shape, size, color, age, background, beliefs, orientation, identity, or any other difference, and keep being a beacon of light. Let’s remember to care for those who are poor or disadvantaged and share what we know with those who may not have had the chance to learn.

I also encourage us all to take time to reflect on our own beliefs. We don’t have to be bound by everything we were taught. Let’s choose compassion, understanding, and awareness. May we nurture the spirit of Christ within us, embracing a consciousness of love and grace in all we do. Let’s be a beacon of light and love daily for all those we touch, love like Jesus loved, without judgment!

One of Vickie’s favorite songs was “Way Maker,” and she cherished any scripture that spoke of God’s faithfulness. As she often reminded those around her: He is so faithful.❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

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