Wade Freeman Grubb

Wade Freeman Grubb, 56, of Stuarts Draft, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 16, 2026, in Staunton.

He was born in Waynesboro, a son of Marian Glenn Dodd Grubb and the late Wade Grubb.

For five years, he worked in maintenance for Mary Baldwin University in Staunton. He was an invaluable member of that department, and his absence will be greatly missed among the faculty and staff of the institution he poured so much of his time, sweat, and energy into.

He was a wonderful and remarkable man whose generous spirit, warm smile, and caring heart touched countless lives. A devoted family man, Freeman was the kind of person who would give someone the shirt off his back. He never met a stranger, and the word “no” simply was not part of his vocabulary when someone needed a helping hand. He never stopped caring for others and was always willing to do whatever he could to make someone’s day a little easier.

Freeman had a wonderful sense of humor and was known as quite the jokester. He almost always had a smile on his face and could be counted on for a laugh, a kind word, or a little hope and encouragement when it was needed most. His ability to make people feel welcome and cared for was simply part of who he was.

Music was another great joy in Freeman’s life. He especially loved bluegrass music and was a talented musician in his own right. He enjoyed playing the saxophone, piano, harmonica, and guitar, sharing his love of music with those around him.

Freeman was also an incredible cook. He seemed to have a gift for making anything he prepared turn out just right. Among his many specialties, his baked beans and crawfish boils were legendary among family and friends.

Above all, Freeman will be remembered for the way he treated people. He gave freely of himself, loved his family deeply, made friends wherever he went, and never passed up an opportunity to help someone in need. His laughter, generosity, encouragement, and that unmistakable smile will not soon be forgotten.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen “Kay” Moore Grubb; his son, Justin Koiner and his fiancée, Emeral Halterman; his daughters, Monica Grubb Dorton and her husband, Matt and Marla Leighanne Grubb and her significant other, John Fariss; his grandchildren, Bryson, Ashlynn, and Willow; and his sister, Kelly Grubb Critzer.

In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by a son, Allan Hardwick.

Services will be announced at a later date.