Wade Alfred Stafford, Sr.

Wade Alfred Stafford, Sr., 90, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026 with his loving family by his side.

He was born in Taylorsville, North Carolina on May 14, 1935 to the late Perry and Lottie Stafford. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Edna Rink Stafford; and his siblings, Blanche, Glenn, Roy, Don, Toy, Lindsay, Mack, Sarah, and Belle.

Wade was the youngest of 10 children growing up on a farm and from his childhood he grew to love animals. He was a proud graduate of Lenior Rhyne College and earned a Masters in Education from UNC-Charlotte. Wade spent 33 years as a dedicated teacher and Assistant Teacher for Gaston County Schools. He was a faithful Christian and member of Covenant Baptist Church. He enjoyed playing golf, watching Nascar and professional wrestling, and gardening. Most of all, Wade loved his family and spending time with them making many happy memories.

He is survived by his children, Teresa Wright (Timothy) and Wade Stafford, Jr. (Cynthia); grandchildren, Lauren Stafford, and Heather Huffman (Michael); great-grandchildren, Tucker Wade Huffman and Dutton Boone Huffman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will gather for visitation from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 pm with Pastor Jeff Spargo officiating, at Catawba Memorial Park, 3010 US-70, Newton, NC 28658.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Perry and Lottie Fox Stafford Endowment Fund at Lenior Rhyne College, 625 7th Ave. NE, Hickory, NC 28601 or Covenant Baptist Church, 3131 Erskine Drive, Gastonia, NC 28054.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com