Wade Adam Smith

Wade was born in York, Pennsylvania, on June 15, 1969, to Jess and Sarah Smith. His mother, Sarah, passed on November 7, 2014. He grew up in Felton and graduated from Red Lion High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and created stories that his friends and family will carry forward with laughter and love.

Driven by a desire to see more of the world and follow in his father’s footsteps, Wade enlisted in the United States Army on July 1, 1987. During his years of service, he demonstrated unwavering dedication, honor, and resilience. He earned numerous awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Sharpshooter Badge (Rifle), Southwest Asia Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, and the Kuwait Liberation Medal. Wade’s service reflected both bravery and deep commitment to his country. Sadly, his time serving in Kuwait directly contributed to the illness that ultimately took his life.

Although Wade often carried a tough outward demeanor, those who truly knew him understood the kindness and gentleness at his core. Soft-spoken by nature, he had an uncanny ability to say exactly what was needed to bring comfort, clarity, or even laughter to any situation.

A devoted and passionate Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Wade never missed a game. He celebrated every win with excitement, and during the losses, he offered some very colorful commentary—always with humor and an unshakable loyalty to his team.

Wade absolutely loved Christmas and cherished his Christmas village, a collection he took great pride in. One of his most treasured traditions was setting it up each year with Brayden—a special ritual filled with laughter, stories, and joy. It is a tradition we have vowed to continue in the years to come, honoring his spirit and keeping his love for Christmas alive.

Wade is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Sarah Smith (2014), and his brother, Denny Smith (2024). He is survived by his devoted wife, Sherrie Smith (Budzowski), and their son, Brayden, age 13. Wade is also survived by his sons Jesse Smith of Colorado; Thomas Smith and his wife, Emaleigh; and Adam Smith. He is further survived by his six grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.

In addition, he is survived by his father, Jess Smith, and stepmother, Gwen Smith, of Pennsylvania; his stepfather, George Diehl; his sister, Christie Colon, and brother-in-law, Ben Colon; and their daughters, his cherished nieces, Alexis and Alyssa, also of Pennsylvania.

Wade never thought in terms of “in-laws”—to him, we were all simply family. It is only fitting to honor those who were so very close to him: Tim Drayton; Juanita Budzowski of Texas; Larry and Fran Budzowski of Texas; Mike and Cathy Budzowski of South Carolina, and his nephews Robert (wife, Lynsey), Tyler (wife, Samantha), Eric, and nieces Katie (husband, Danny Brown), and Ashlyn. Their love, support, and presence in his life meant more than words can express.

We are also deeply grateful for the many friends who are family to us, and whose support has meant so much during this time—Mike Taylor and Albert Kucher, Barbara and Curt Krueger, and Samantha Duran.

A special thanks to Team 561 at Vitas Hospice Care; Kelly, you were amazing, and I truly appreciated you and everything you did for us.

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.”

Services being handled by Sunset NW Funeral Home

A visitation will be held at 11:00 AM on December 18, 2025, followed by a chapel service at 1:00 PM at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home, 6321 Bandera Rd, San Antonio, Texas 78238. A procession will follow to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209 for a 2:45 PM committal service with honors. A reception will follow afterwards, please confirm with family to ask about the location and time.