Dalton, Georgia - Matthew Ryan Wade, 53, of Dalton, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home on May 24, surrounded by his family.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Ruth Harbuck; grandparents, Florence and Hershell Wade; uncle, Chris Wade; aunts, Anita Evans and Virginia Pullen; and niece, Caroline Thomas.

Ryan is survived by his parents, Hershell and Betty Wade; his sister, Amanda Thomas (John); his brother, Grant Wade (Tracey); and his beloved nieces and nephews: Sam, Jorden, Zachary, Kaitlin, Sarah, Jack, and Anna.

To know Ryan was to know joy. He was a light in the lives of all who met him—a gentle soul with a heart full of love, a contagious smile and a passionate spirit. Ryan had a deep love for movies, music, the Georgia Bulldogs, and most of all, his family.

Ryan had a unique ability to see the good in everyone and everything. He never let the challenges he faced define him. He viewed the world through a lens of optimism, approaching life with gratitude and kindness. He never dwelled on what was missing or what could be better—he simply celebrated what was, finding joy even in the smallest moments.

From a young age, Ryan was surrounded by a large and loving family who cherished him deeply — none more so than his grandfather and best friend, Hershell Wade Sr., better known to Ryan as 'Papaw.' The bond they shared was unbreakable.

Ryan's siblings, Amanda and Grant, were more than just family to him—they were his biggest supporters and a constant in his life. Together, they surrounded him with love and made sure he always felt safe.

Ryan Wade's legacy is one of love, laughter and the strength of a life lived with a pure heart. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A private celebration of Ryan's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to Special Olympics Georgia.