Ernestine (Woodard) Wade

Ernestine Wade, a beacon of unwavering faith and boundless love, completed her earthly journey on September 18, 2025. Born on April 3, 1953, in Michigan City, Indiana, Ernestine's life was a tapestry of devotion, service, and joy that she wove with the threads of her beliefs and the love she had for her family and community.

Ernestine's story began in the same place as it would end, in Michigan City, where she was born to Cary JuJu Woodard III and Margaret Louise Nixon-Woodard.  Her roots run deep, with paternal grandparents, Cary Woodard Sr. and Daisy Harvey-Brown, and maternal grandparents, Clarence Nixon Sr. and Octavia Annie Lee Hogan-Nixon, planting the seeds of strength and resilience that would flourish throughout her life.

A lifelong resident of Michigan City, Ernestine was a cherished member of the community, known for her kind heart and generous spirit.  In 1969, Ernestine's heart found its match in Luther Wade Jr., and together they embarked on a journey of love and partnership that would span over five decades.  She was the proud mother of Elder Stephanie (Michel) Fortson, Tina (Rodney) Mahone, Elder Luther Wade III and Ryan Wade, God-sons Apostle Dion (LaRonda) Campbell and Prophet Terry (Otiwa) Campbell, and special daughter, Bridgette Coppage. She was a doting grandmother to 11 grandchildren: William Wade, Divinity Divine (Monique) Weston, Tiffanie (Uriyah Antwan) Tobias, Michael (Olivia) Henderson, Angelia Fortson, Nyasa (Shaiequad) Elliott, Alversia Wade, Luther Wade IV, Jasmine Lewis, Christina Mahone, Sidney Mahone, Rodney Mahone Jr., and 19 great-grandchildren who will remember her for the endless encouragement and wisdom she imparted.

Ernestine's family circle included her devoted brother, Dr. Jabu Woodard, and she was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Alana Paulette Wade, her sister at birth, Charlotte Nixon, brothers Jimmy Hodges, David Hodges Jr., Antonio "Tommy" Hodges, and Richard Hodges, brother-in-law, Robert Thomas Sr. and special friends Youmeller Campbell and Ed (Sandra) Hamm.  She leaves behind special sisters Loyce Woodard, Earnestine Davis, and Elizabeth Campbell, special friends, Ed (Faye) Moore, Larry (Diane) Adams, Mary Pugh, Gerri Thomas and Theola Wright.  Ernestine's life was further enriched by her brother-in-law Willie Thomas, special sister-in-law, Darlene Thomas, and special mother-in-Christ, Pearline Fitzpatrick.  A host of nieces, nephews and cousins will all cherish her memories.

Ernestine's educational pursuits led her to become a paraprofessional, where she applied her passion for knowledge and her nurturing spirit in service to others. As a paraprofessional for Michigan City Area Schools, she touched many lives, guiding young minds with patience and wisdom. Her love for teaching and education extended beyond the school classroom. She also used her gift to teach others about God as a powerful, knowledgeable Sunday School Teacher.

Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devout member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church for over 60 years, Ernestine was a Prayer Warrior, Sunday School Teacher, beloved member of the Kitchen Committee, active participant of the Mothers Board, prior Usher, and always willing to share her faith, compassion, talents and testimony with all.

Ernestine's interests were windows into her soul. Word games reflected her love for the power of language, traveling showcased her adventurous spirit, and reading the Bible was her way of constantly connecting with her faith. Her cooking and hospitality were legendary, creating a warm and welcoming home where all felt loved.

The words that best describe Ernestine are "faith filled", navigating life's ups and downs with an unshakeable belief that everything was part of a grander plan.  Though her physical presence will be missed, the impact of her spirit remains a guiding light, encouraging us all to live with purpose, to cherish our loved ones, and to serve with an open heart.  

Ernestine Wade, a true servant of God, has found her eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to motivate and uplift for generations to come.  On September 18th, our mother and matriarch transitioned from here to Glory.  We didn’t lose our mother, rather we rest in the fact that heaven gained her.  While our hearts are broken, our spirits are rejoicing.  God has called her home.  

Rest well.  And in the words of our father, Luther Wade Jr.:

“We Love You Mama, and That is Always!”

A visitation will be Friday, October 3, 2025 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church. Celebration of Life will be Saturday, October 4, 2025 at noon, viewing one hour prior to the services at the church.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ernestine (Woodard) Wade, please visit our floral store.