Gary “Wade” Benz, Jr., a cherished father, husband, son, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend, passed away on Friday, January 26, 2024. His warm smile, quick wit, and passionate engagement in conversation made him a memorable presence to everyone he met. The Wade Benz Obituary serves as a testament to a life lived with enthusiasm and love, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
Born on November 14, 1979, in Nashville, TN, Wade was the son of Gary and Diane Benz. Even in his early years, Wade demonstrated a remarkable versatility and charisma. Before reaching the age of eighteen, he explored careers in modeling, acting, and even news broadcasting, showcasing a natural talent for communication and performance. His intellectual curiosity was evident from a young age, with a keen interest in emerging technologies, current global events, and the intricacies of politics. Wade’s faith was central to his life; he was a devout Christian and a proud alumnus of Christ Presbyterian Academy (CPA), Western Kentucky University, and Belmont University, institutions that shaped his values and provided a foundation for his future endeavors. Following his college education, Wade embarked on a meaningful professional journey, partnering with his father, Gary, in business. This partnership was deeply significant to him, fostering not only professional growth but also strengthening their familial bond. Wade possessed an insatiable thirst for knowledge, becoming an avid reader of biographies and business journals, constantly seeking to expand his understanding of the world and the people who shaped it.
Beyond his professional and intellectual pursuits, Wade found immense joy and solace in his personal life. He cherished vacations spent on the beaches of Florida, and it was there, in 2010, that fate intervened, and he met Natalie, the woman who would become his beloved wife. Their connection was immediate and profound, leading to marriage the following year. Together, they built a home and a life in the vibrant community of Franklin, Tennessee, where they were blessed with four beautiful children. Wade’s devotion to his children was unparalleled. He relished every moment spent with them, from the special daddy-daughter dances with his eldest daughter, Sawyer, to peaceful Sunday morning fishing trips with his son, Owen. He created cherished memories with his daughter Remy on fun-filled daddy-daughter dates for donuts and ensured he spent quality, individual time with his youngest daughter, Sully, nurturing each of their unique personalities and interests.
Wade had an extraordinary ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He was known for his genuine friendliness; he never encountered a stranger. He cultivated numerous friendships and was fiercely loyal to his family. Throughout his life’s journey, Wade Benz profoundly impacted countless lives, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to those he loved.
He is lovingly remembered and survived by his wife, Natalie, his daughters, Sawyer Kate, Remington Ryan “Remy”, and Sullivan Roe “Sully”, and his son, Owen Wade; his parents, Gary and Diane Benz; his sister, Stephanie (Jody) McBrayer; his brother, Chase (Tessa) Benz; his Father and Mother-in-law, Mike and Kelly Roebuck; his Brothers-in-law, Michael (Hannah) Roebuck, Christopher (Mallory) Roebuck, and Ryan Roebuck; his nieces, Sarah-Clayton McBrayer, Shiloh and Noah Benz, Riley and Blake, and Charlie and Millie; and his nephews, Tripp and Phillip Roebuck.
The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Christ Presbyterian Academy in Wade’s honor. These contributions will support the “Unseen Stories” project, an initiative Wade passionately championed to enhance the campus athletic/wellness facilities. As an enthusiastic supporter of CPA Athletics, Wade deeply valued the sense of community and school spirit it fostered. Donations can be made by visiting cpalions.org/give and designating gifts to “Unseen Stories”.
A Celebration of Life service to commemorate Wade’s remarkable life will be held at Rolling Hills Community Church in Franklin, TN. Friends and family are invited to attend the visitation from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by the service at 2:00 PM, all taking place at Rolling Hills Community Church, located at 1810 Columbia Ave., Franklin, TN 37064. A private burial service for family will follow the Celebration of Life service. This wade benz obituary honors a man who will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his vibrant spirit and loving heart.
