Wade P. McCloud

Wade Preston McCloud, educator, uncle, youth mentor and beloved father was born on April 19, 1941 to the late Lillian and Gus McCloud in Wilmington, NC. He was one of nine siblings and shared countless childhood stories of his brotherly bonds and sisterly love. He reminisced on growing up next to the Boys & Girls Club as an instrumental outlet for his youth. He shared a special life-long relationship with siblings Barbara Ann and Butch. Wade graduated from North Carolina Central University in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce (Business). He always talked fondly about his college summers working in Chicago to save money for tuition while living with his dear sister Marine “June”. He spent quality time with her children having a positive influence on his three nephews’ future college paths. Always a determined hard worker, he talked about hitch hiking in the summer from Durham, NC to Atlantic City so he could work and earn enough money to graduate from college. His youthful years brought him to Washington, DC and he graduated from University of DC with a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology in 1980. Later years he became a licensed and board certified Mental Health Counselor. He followed his entrepreneurial dream opening a business called “Progressive Printing” located on Georgia Ave (near Howard University). Wade was known for his innovative ideas and resolve in business. Becoming a prominent African American business owner in the 1980’s led to him being featured in multiple newspaper articles. He shared his wisdom with local business owners and young apprentices. He always preached the power of education to his children, family and youth. He was a mentor to many young at-risk males and a pillar of support in his community. Wade volunteered for over 10 years on the board of the Kiwanis Club and served in various roles including Chapter president. He was most passionate about organizing annual food drives and bringing his daughter to volunteer became a tradition. Desiring to make a positive impact on his community he pursued his other career passion, becoming a mental health counselor at Lutheran Services and Hope Village. Wade spent over 25 years providing mental health and clinical research services to countless families through Government of the District of Columbia. He took immense pride in serving with honor and integrity. He received numerous awards and recognition for his dedication. Above all, Wade cherished his role as a father. Out of his martial union to Vivian McCloud, they had a daughter, London. London is the epitome of a daddy’s girl. They shared similar taste palette, passion for community service work, immensely enjoyed deep conversations about world affairs. Despite his tall statue he was jokingly referred to as “Shorty” by friends. He especially enjoyed “going down memory lane” with loyal friends who journeyed with him throughout life (over 70+ years) Marvin Stokes and David Hales. An avid outdoorsman, Wade enjoyed fishing, hunting and exploring the beauty of nature. His younger years were full of playing tennis and golfing. In later years he watched these sports fervently on TV. He remained a loyal Commanders fan his entire life (always hoping for a Super Bowl season!). He took pride in being a neighborhood staple as he sat on his porch and conversed with friendly neighbors for the past 30 years. He cherished his bond with Joe “Cuz Joe” Brown. Joe was a faithful daily visitor to Wade and he always looked forward to playing cards and watching sports together. They shared laughter more than anything else. London and Cuz Joe took pride in caring for Wade in his final earthly years. London will always remember his calm presence as a source of comfort to her during the recent loss of her mom, Vivian. Despite his numerous health challenges, his unwavering positivity and resilience in the face of adversity continues to be the ultimate act of love for his daughter. He would wisely tell her “Embrace life’s opportunities and challenges with courage. Keep praying and trust God.” He leaves to cherish his exemplary life: London, Cousin Joe, siblings: Barbara Ann, Butch and Billy. He’s rejoicing in a heavenly reunion with his siblings: Gus Jr., June, Richard "Binney", Clara "Scoop", and Jerome "Comsey". He is forever cherished by a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Tributes

Wade P. McCloud

April 19, 1941 - June 18, 2025