Edith Frances Wade

Frances Wade

Edith Frances Canty Wade was born February 8, 1924 on the Catawba Indian Reservation of Rock Hill, S.C.. Frances was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Horace Gary Wade Sr., her son Michael Gregg Wade, and a great-grand son, Clayton Douglas Eaves. Frances is survived by a daughter, Sherry G. Osborn (Milton) of Rock Hill, and son, Horace Gary Wade Jr.
(Pamela), also of Rock Hill. She was blessed with 14 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Frances was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and a member of the Catawba First Ward. She served in many position in the church including teacher of an early morning seminary young class for 13 years.

Frances was employed for 28 years with the South Carolina Indian Development Council with the primary function of providing funds and opportunities for job training and placement for Native Americans young adults. In 2004, she received the Order of the Palmetto award from the Governor of the state of South Carolina.
This award was presented to her in recognition of her contributions and friendship to the state of South Carolina and her people. This award is the highest honor conferred upon South Carolina citizens.

She was very proud of her Native American heritage. In the mid 1970's, she was the first president of the Catawba Indian Potter's
Association. She encouraged her people to be strong and independent, and always bettering themselves. Frances had a love of the outdoors and nature. She enjoyed fishing on the banks of the Catawba River. In later years she was an avid gardener, beautifying her yard with flowers and growing wonderful vegetables. She left behind many loved ones who will miss her strong spirit, wit, and grace.