Teresa Jane Gentry Wade, 63, passed away Dec. 5, 2025, in Greenville, South Carolina surrounded by the family she fought hard for her entire life.
A native of Bloomington, Minnesota, daughter of the late James Edward and Billye Jo Wilson Gentry, she was the co-owner of J.W. Construction and of the Baptist faith.
Teresa’s love showed itself in small, steady ways. When her children were young, she tucked them in each night and sang the Amen song as a ritual of comfort and warmth that defined her kind of motherhood. She raised her three children while running a daycare in her home, creating stability for others even on days she had to build her own from the ground up. She later co-owned JW Construction, a remodeling and construction company, bringing the same determination and resilience to her work that she carried into every part of her life.
Teresa had a fierce resilience, a mix of grit, spirit, and a refusal to quit, no matter what she was facing. What people will remember most is her capacity to care and her energy. Teresa loved openly, welcomed easily, and made room in her life for anyone who needed kindness.
Surviving are her husband, Charles Joseph Wade of the home; a son, Jason Nutting (Jessica) of Travelers Rest; a daughter, Jessica Shead (Matthew) of Greenville; three brothers, James E. Gentry II (Sherry) of Townville, Harold Gentry (Debbie) of Mauldin, and William Gentry (Lenita) of Townville; two sisters, Valerie G. Thompson of Louisville, Kentucky and Cindy Torrez (Steve) of Carr, Colorado; and two grandchildren, Morgan Shead and Sullivan Shead.
She was predeceased by a daughter, Jennifer Clinkscales, a brother, Charles R. Gentry, and two sisters, Cathy L. Gentry and Patricia D. Gentry.
Teresa will be remembered for her strength, her energy, and the love she gave, often quietly, always wholeheartedly.
A private gathering will be held to honor her life.
The family is at their respective homes.
Online condolences may be made at www.thewoodmortuary.com.
