Jim Zachary

Rev. Willie Wade is a treasure. Stepping into his barbershop on Martin Luther King Drive is like stepping back in time, in more ways than one.

In his eighties, he is still cutting hair for a few clients, but he admits many of his regulars have passed away.

However, Rev. Wade is keeping their memories and the memories of others who have served our community and our nation alive.

Through the stories he tells, he is a walking history book and the walls of his barbershop a museum.

Many people will know Rev. Wade for organizing a black history program that focused on the 103rd Regiment, U.S. Colored Infantry.

Though he was not there personally, he loves to share the stories from 1865-66, following the Civil War, when African-American soldiers of the 103rd Regiment occupied Valdosta.

Wade said that the troops, encamped downtown, built our first black schools, founded black churches and provided protection for black men, women and children following the War Between the States.

Wade explains his fascination with that rich history, saying he is a direct descendant of the Wades who served in the 103rd.

Young people in our community would benefit immeasurably from spending a little time at his feet — just listening.

His love for history and the stories he has to share do not stop with the Not-so-Civil War.

He talks about the plethora of contributions to our community from black residents that he hopes will not be forgotten.

He talks about working as a caddy and later playing golf at a club where blacks made members

uncomfortable. “They didn’t

know what to think of me,” Wade said.

It is hard not to think wonderful things about Willie Wade.

His laugh, his smile, his stories, the energy that he brings to life are all infectious.

He is obvioulsy a man of faith.  

Though he has seen a lot of social injustice in his days, there is no bitterness in his voice.

Willie Wade loves people — all people, regardless of race, social status or where they get their hair cut.

Though he is no spring chicken, he seems to think that life is too short not to enjoy every day.

He has been through a lot, lost a wife, a child and a host of friends, suffered indignities — but he doesn’t want anyone to very feel sorry for him.

He is a proud man.

Proud of his barbershop, proud of his walls of photographs and memorabilia, proud of the histories reflected there, proud of his children who have accomplished great things and proud of his community.

Anyone who knows him, should be proud to call him a friend.

Rev. Willie Wade is a community treasure.