Quandrico Rutledge Wade

Quandrico Rutledge Wade

Sunrise: February 24, 1975

Sunset: January 29, 2026

“ I’m now at the chapter of my life called happiness. I’m doing things that make me happy? ”

~~From the Facebook page of Quandrico Rutledge Wade

Life, Love, and Legacy

Quandrico Rutledge Wade was born on February 24, 1975, in Lancaster, South Carolina and departed this life on January 29, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he resided for many years.

Affectionately known as Drico or Quan, he was a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend.Quandrico’s foundation was built on faith and love, and he lived among a "village" of people who

inspired, supported, and encouraged his every step. In a recent interview, he stated, “God is not distant.God is present now. Love is still the answer!”

Like a “gentle giant,” Quandrico was both firm and kind, often unwavering in his belief and conviction. He was not “short on words.

” Everyone knew “where he stood” and he did not hesitate to “tell you about yourself.” To some, Quandrico was a mentor and role model. To others, he was a protector and advocate. Whether through a word of wisdom or a shoulder to cry on, he lifted others up as he climbed and left an everlasting imprint on those around him.

Education, Brotherhood, and Service.  A 1993 graduate of Lancaster High School, Quandrico was also a proud graduate of Winthrop University where he earned his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theater Arts. He later obtained his MBA from the University of Phoenix. On March 29, 1997, he was initiated into the Sigma Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., embarking on nearly 30 years of dedicated service. While at Winthrop, his passion for the stage and leadership flourished. He actively participated in student activities and served in various organizations to include the Student Government Association, African-American Theater Ensemble, NAACP, Association of Ebonites, Circle K, Student Alumni Council, and the Student Residence Life Association. He was also a Winthrop Ambassador, Orientation Assistant, and Resident Assistant. He received numerous awards for his leadership and service. Professional Excellence Quandrico was a respected professional in the Charlotte area, most recently working as a Fraud Operations Analyst at Wells Fargo. His extensive career spanned human resources, finance, and healthcare. He was an Accounts Receivable Analyst at Ensemble Health Partners; Account Specialist- Business Retention at Spectrum; Senior Fraud Representative at Synchrony Financial; Human Resource Specialist at Aon Hewitt; Reimbursement Counselor at AmerisourceBergen; Patient Services Team Lead at PMAB, LLC; Benefits Verification Specialist at CVS Caremark Corporation; Project Specialist at Palmetto GBA; Human Resources Assistant at Arch Wireless; Student Information Services Coordinator at Queens University; and Customer Relations Representative at Bell. Through all his experiences, his fellow employees knew Quandrico as a knowledgeable strategist, dependable leader, and empathetic colleague. Community Impact, Advocacy and Leadership Beyond his professional life, Quandrico’s heart belonged to service, advocacy, and the arts. In addition to his service through the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., he spent years as a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. His commitment to social justice was reflected in his work with the Social Justice Committee at Caldwell Presbyterian Church. Quandrico was a cornerstone of the Charlotte Black Pride organization for over a decade and worked diligently for inclusion and community care. He served in various roles to include Operations and Logistics Coordinator; Production Stage Coordinator; Community Outreach Coordinator; and Director of Pageantry and Entertainment. Family and Early Life At an early age, Quandrico was raised by his grandmother, the late Ellen S. Wade, and his aunt, Debrah J. Wade, who cherished him as the first grandchild. He is survived by his aunt Debrah, mother Annie Mae (Dennis), and father Joe Wade Jr. (Geraldine), all of Lancaster. His stepmother Rita Wade, grandmother Lilly May Laney, grandfather Joe Wade, Sr., uncle Robert Louis Laney, and Aunt Nanny all preceded him in death. Quandrico also leaves behind siblings Sharonica Wade, Derrick Wade, Rhyshawd Yhundi Rutledge, Ramon Takil Rudisell, Markevis Ali Rudisell, Quavis Jamal Rudisell, and stepsister Kiesha Canty, all of Lancaster. He regarded his uncles— Sgt. James Wade of Columbia, S.C. (Young), the late Sgt. John Wade (Earlene) of Lancaster, S.C., Rick C. Wade of Washington, D.C., and Sgt. Ronald Wade of Lancaster, S.C. — as his brothers since they all grew up together in the family home. A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends will cherish his memories forever. May the life Quandrico lived, the work he did, and the service he rendered speak for him! “ Be happy! Live each day to the fullest. You never know how much time you have left! The real tragedy is not death, it’s leaving love unspoken and life unlived.”

~~From the Facebook page of Quandrico Rutledge-Wade

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