The beloved wife of Aubrey Wade, Betty L. Wade balanced career, community, and family with grace.
The University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) athletic community is mourning the loss of Hall of Famer Aubrey Stephen Wade, a legendary athlete whose legacy stretches far beyond the football field.
Aubrey Wade, 94, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Lourdes Medical Center in Lafayette, Louisiana.
Born on February 4, 1931, in Mize, Mississippi, to Gold Stephen and Mary Ann Dupree Wade, Aubrey was a multi-sport athlete whose talent earned him national recognition.
After proudly serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict, he returned home, completed his education, and attended Jones County Junior College (JCJC), where he continued to excel in sports.
Aubrey’s athletic career flourished at Northeast Louisiana State College (now ULM), where he earned a football scholarship and became known as a “triple threat” — running, passing, and punting.
His outstanding performances earned him All-American honors in 1956 and later induction into the NLU Athletics Hall of Fame in 1984.
He also participated in track and broke several records during his collegiate career.
Beyond sports, Aubrey was deeply committed to his community.
He co-founded the football program at Lake Arthur High School (LAHS) in 1957, helped establish the school’s Hall of Fame, and remained an active supporter of local athletics.
His passion for mentoring youth extended into coaching, officiating, and community involvement for decades.
Aubrey Wade is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and sister.
But at the heart of his legacy is the enduring love he shared with his wife of nearly 76 years, Betty Lucille Aycock Wade.
Aubrey Wade’s Wife, Betty, Lived A Life Of Service
Betty Lucille Aycock Wade, the beloved wife of Aubrey Wade, passed away just two months before her husband, on March 18, 2025, at the age of 92.
Born on December 30, 1932, in Laurel, Mississippi, to William Lee and Daisy Wedgworth Aycock, Betty led a remarkable life defined by service, education, and unwavering support for her family and community.
Betty met Aubrey during their high school years in Laurel, and the two were married on April 2, 1949.
Their early married life was shaped by Aubrey’s military service and athletic career, which took them to various places before settling permanently in Lake Arthur, Louisiana, in 1957.
Determined and ambitious, Betty pursued higher education while raising a family.
She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from McNeese State University in 1964, funding her studies by teaching piano lessons.
She later achieved a Master’s Degree, a Plus 30 Degree, and a Specialist Degree, reflecting her deep commitment to learning.
Her teaching career began at Lake Arthur High School, where she taught eighth grade and later moved into district-level leadership.
As the parish Math Resource Teacher and later the K–8 Supervisor for Jefferson Davis Parish School Board, Betty impacted thousands of students and educators before retiring after a 30-year career.
In addition to her professional contributions, Betty was a cornerstone of her community.
She played piano and organ for over 40 years at her church and participated actively in organizations such as the Eastern Star, Retired Teachers Association, Delta Kappa Gamma, Entre Nous, Library Club, and the Republican Women’s Club.
Betty was known for her poise, intellect, and devotion to her family.
She was a constant presence at the sporting events of her husband, children, and grandchildren, offering encouragement from the stands and support at home.
Her legacy is one of quiet strength, tireless service, and unconditional love.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Aubrey Wade never lost a game as a pitcher during his high school and junior college baseball career.
- He worked for Superior Oil (later Mobil) for 35 years, retiring in 1992.
- He refereed basketball for 26 years and also umpired baseball and football games in his community.
