SESSER – Wade Roy Lemons, 76, of Sesser, passed away on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at his home.
He was born on July 19, 1948, in Scheller, IL, to David and Amanda Lemons. He married Gloria (Zettler) Lemons on August 6, 1977, and she preceded him in death.
He is survived by his daughters, Sara (Tony) Wetherbee of Zeigler, IL, Amanda (Ron) Lemons of North Las Vegas, and Rachael (Jeff) Hamburger of Sesser, IL; stepsons, David Smith of Sesser, IL, and Robin Smith of Metropolis, IL, also survive him. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Lemons of Sesser, IL; and three sisters, Carol Wilkerson of Tennessee, Charlotte Lemons of Sesser, IL, and Shirley Davis of Royalton, IL. His grandchildren include Malissa Green, Maranda Lemons, Wade Lemons, Bethany Smith, Alicia Green, Zenida Perez, Ofelia Perez, Austin Smith, Gio Lemons, Gage Ragland, Amilya Ragland, Ethan Hamburger, and Sierra Moore. He is also survived by his beloved fur babies, Vixen, Ozzy, Paul, and Sheba; as well as several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many adopted family members. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, wife, daughter, Marsha Green; granddaughter, Matyson Ragland; grandson, Timmy Green; siblings, Rosa Cobb, Loyd Lemons, Norma Haley, Doris Stinson; and several nieces and nephews.
Wade was a proud 1st Cavalry Army veteran who served in Vietnam, achieving the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart. Wade was the former commander of the Cox Post 4753 VFW in Sesser, IL. He was an active member of the community, serving on the zoning board and as a delegate for the Veterans Assistance Commission of Franklin County.
Wade was an outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, being on the lake, playing his guitar, and singing “Puff the Magic Dragon” to his children and grandchildren. Wade was an extraordinary individual who loved everyone with unwavering dedication. His selfless love and compassion inspired countless individuals who were fortunate enough to know him. To know him was to love him. Per his wishes, he was cremated.
Wade’s celebration of life will be held at the Sesser VFW on Saturday, June 7, starting at 4 p.m., and a graveside service with military rights will be held on June 8, at 10 a.m., at Dryden Cemetery in Scheller, IL.
For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com.
