Early Life and Family
Gary “Wade” Benz, Jr. was born on November 14, 1979, in Nashville, Tennessee. His parents were Gary and Diane Benz. Growing up in Nashville, Wade became known for his warm smile, fun personality, and love of talking to people. He easily made friends and had the ability to make everyone around him feel special.
Education and Early Career
Wade went to Christ Presbyterian Academy (CPA), where he was very active in school activities. He started exploring his interests in modeling, acting, and even news broadcasting before he turned 18. Wade was always curious about new technology, world news, and politics. After finishing high school, he went on to study at Western Kentucky University and then at Belmont University. Wade was a proud Christian and was very dedicated to his studies during these years.
Professional Life
After finishing his education, Wade worked closely with his father, Gary, in business. This was something he cared about and enjoyed. He loved reading biographies and business articles, always wanting to learn new things and keep up with what was happening in the world. Wade worked hard to be successful, not only in his personal life but also in his career.
Personal Life
In 2010, Wade went on vacation to Florida. While there, he met Natalie, and they quickly fell in love. They got married the next year and decided to settle in Franklin, Tennessee, where they built a home. Together, they had four children: daughters Sawyer Kate, Remington Ryan (Remy), and Sullivan Roe (Sully), and son Owen Wade. Wade loved being a father. He especially enjoyed doing fun things with his kids, like taking his daughters to dances and fishing with his son. Family meant the world to him.
Community Involvement
Wade was not just focused on his family and work. He also cared deeply about his community. He gave a lot of support to Christ Presbyterian Academy, especially for a project called “Unseen Stories.” This project was meant to build a new athletic and wellness center at the school. Wade believed that having school spirit and supporting the school could help bring the community together. He also loved following and supporting the sports teams at CPA.
Passing and Legacy
Wade passed away on January 26, 2024, leaving a big impact on everyone who knew him. His kindness, dedication, and loving nature made him someone who was deeply loved by his family, friends, and the people in his community. Wade will always be remembered for the positive mark he left on the lives of those around him.
Memorial Services
To celebrate Wade’s life, a special service was held at Rolling Hills Community Church in Franklin, Tennessee. Family and friends gathered from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and the service took place at 2:00 PM. After the service, a private burial was held for his family.
Family and Survivors
Wade is survived by his loving wife, Natalie, and their four children: Sawyer Kate, Remington Ryan “Remy,” Sullivan Roe “Sully,” and Owen Wade. He is also survived by his parents, Gary and Diane Benz; his sister Stephanie and her husband Jody McBrayer; his brother Chase and his wife Tessa Benz; and his in-laws Mike and Kelly Roebuck, along with his brothers-in-law Michael, Christopher, and Ryan Roebuck. Wade’s family also includes many nieces and nephews, who all loved him very much.
Memorial Contributions
Instead of sending flowers, Wade’s family asked for donations to Christ Presbyterian Academy. These donations will support the “Unseen Stories” project that Wade cared about so much. People who want to give can visit cpalions.org/give and choose to donate to this special project.
Community Tributes
The people of Nashville were very sad to hear about Wade’s passing. Many shared stories about his kindness, hard work, and how he always brought positive energy wherever he went. Wade had a way of making everyone around him feel important and happy, and his legacy continues to inspire everyone who knew him.