Wade Lynn Nelms, 79, of Deweyville, Texas, passed away on September 28, 2025, at home.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, October 2, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Deweyville. Officiating will be Reverend Damon Bickham. Burial will follow at Deweyville Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Deweyville.
Born in Vivian, Louisiana, on July 24, 1946, he was the son of Clyde Nelms and Belle (Wall) Spears. He lived a full life dedicated to his community and family. Wade worked in construction and then later as a home builder, showcasing his remarkable skills and pride in his work. Right out of high school, he joined the United States Air Force, proudly serving as an Air Traffic Controller and in the Vietnam War. Wade was known for being tough on the outside, but soft at heart, demonstrating kindness and a willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need. He was a cherished member of First Baptist Church of Deweyville, where he was able to share his love of the Lord and community. An excellent athlete, he led his basketball team to their first state championship appearance, a testament to his competitive spirit and determination. Wade was long time member of the Masonic Lodge in Orange where he, through much hard work and commitment, became a 32nd degree Mason. He loved the outdoors, finding joy in fishing and hunting, and he never met a stranger, always ready to engage with those around him. Wade will be remembered fondly for his intelligence and ability to fix or build anything that came his way. Wade’s paramount quality was his love for his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde Nelms and Belle Spears; sisters, Evelyn Pickard and Jean Jester; brothers, Paul Nelms, Billy Nelms, and Doug Nelms.
He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sandy Nelms; daughter, Amanda Lynn Nelms; son, Bryan Keith Nelms; sisters, Pauline Ashton and Wanda Jackson; extended family, Laura McKinney and Nancy Murdock; brothers and sisters-in-law, Ronnie Bickham and wife Ruth, Susie Estes, Brad Bickham and wife Sue, Damon Bickham and wife Carolyn, John Bickham and wife Trina, Steven Bickham and wife Jeanette; various nieces, nephews, and other loving family and friends.
Serving as pallbearers will be Phillip Cailavet, Jay Hill, Robert Lopez, Charles “Bubba” Whitsitt, James “Peanut” Reed, and William Kirkwood. Honorary pallbearer is Jim Davidson.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to First Baptist Church – Deweyville Choir at 644 State Highway 272, Deweyville, TX 77614.