Obituaries

Debra Sue Wade, 68, of Yorktown, passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2026, in Newport News, VA. She was a native of Noblesville, IN, but had lived in Yorktown, VA for 42 years. Debra worked for the Newport News Public Schools as a School Bus Driver for 16 years. She was a faithful viewer of Emmaus Baptist Church, and while she was not able to attend services in person, Debra watched her son preach virtually every week at Emmaus Baptist and would regularly ask him questions about her Bible.

Debra was preceded in death by her father, Wilbur Peckens, aunt, Barbara Matias, and nephew, Landon Lee Peckens. She was survived by her husband, Samuel E. Wade – they would have celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary in September; two daughters, Marcia Austin (Dave) and Melinda Wade (Ben); son Scott Wade (Bethany); mother, Mary Peckens, two sisters, Cathy Brannum (Duke) and Sandy Hendricks; two brothers, Randy Peckens (Melody) and Paul Peckens; five grandchildren, Thomas Denardi (Katie), Isaac Wade, Josiah Wade, Micah Wade, Tirzah Wade; two great-Grandchildren, Jaxon Denardi and Karter Denardi; seven nieces and nephews, Jeremiah Brannum, Jeremy Peckens, Stephanie Caldwell, April Keeland, Ashley Stephens, Alicia Patel, and Julia Kelley.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing Debra now rests in the presence of her Savior. Her legacy of love, strength, and enduring faith will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.

In lieu of flowers, consider a memorial contribution to Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Hampton, VA Chapter – started by her daughter Marcia; or a memorial offering to Emmaus Baptist Church, where her son serves as pastor.

A private graveside service for the family will be held at a later date at Emmaus Baptist Cemetery.