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William Wade Pickard, age 69, passed away peacefully on July 26, surrounded by the love of family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack McElvy Pickard and Katherine Goodwyne Pickard.
Wade believed in directing one’s own life: in weighing a decision, asking what the next best step might be, and then having the courage to take it. That philosophy carried him from his home in Columbus, Georgia, graduating as a loyal Georgia Bulldog, and a career in commercial development. Wade and Lisa Rogers Pickard, his wife and true love, traveled the world side by side, which led to a journey that would come to define him: a move to Africa, where he built a home and gave himself fully to the life around him. He was passionate about the preservation of endangered animals and found something sacred in being one with the process of life itself: the rhythms of the land, the wildlife, and the vastness of it all.
Sailing was another of his great passions. Whether racing, chasing adventures on the open water, or helping friends deliver boats to their next destination, he was always ready to go. Through sailing he built friendships that spanned decades and coastlines, from Tampa, Florida to ports far beyond.
Books were among his truest companions and Wade was exceptionally well-read. He could always be found with something interesting in hand, content in the quiet but he was equally at home in a crowd. His wife’s social gatherings, full of good food and dear friends, were some of his favorite moments, and he brought the same warmth to every room he entered. He was, simply, a friend to all: a great listener, generous with his attention, and beloved by people from every chapter of his life. He and Lisa recently settled in the Columbus area, where he grew up.
He is survived by his wife, Lisa, and his sister, Shannon Pickard Marsh (Shep), his nephew Howard Matthew Johnson, grandnephews Howard Carter Johnson and Dalton McElvy Johnson, sisters-in-law Susan Rogers (Matt) and Lynn James, brother-in-law Kevin McGuirk, and nieces Hanna James, Sarah James, Elena McGuirk and Miranda (Mal) McGuirk.
Wade lived by his own compass, always asking what came next and meeting it with open arms. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to call him a friend. Wade lived by the words of William Ernest Henley’s poem “Invictus”: “I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.”
There will be two Celebrations of Life to drop in and toast Wade’s life and friendship:
August 8, 2026, from 3-5 pm at 1701 Bayshore Boulevard, Tampa Florida
August 21, 2026, from 2-5 pm at 455 Cedar Drive W, Hamilton, Georgia
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following organizations in Wade’s name:
Rhino Revolution at: www.rhinorevolution.org
Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama at: www.columbushospice.com
Georgia Cremation-Columbus is assisting the family with the arrangements.
LeNoir says
My sympathy to Wade’s family. This tribute to his life is lovely. I knew Wade in high school, and although I never would have predicted the direction he took in later life, many of the qualities that guided him were already there, even back then. Very sorry for your loss.
Kathy LeNoir
Gary Jones says
Wade was a wonderful guy and will be missed.
Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.
Bianca Burger says
I met Wade in Namibia at EHRA. His love and knowledge for nature and animals astounded me. A wonderful man who left his mark on people of all kinds.
Condolences to your family who he loved speaking about ❤️*
Mel Mendenhall says
Sorry to hear the news, that will no doubt befall us all. In grade school at Clubview, on occasion I would go home with Wade and race go carts in his backyard. He had an area behind his yard thick with bamboo. Perhaps a foretelling of an adventurous life.
Printha and Jai says
Wade was a special person who never hesitated to speak his mind and always stood up for what he believed was right. His strong sense of justice, courage, and integrity inspired everyone who knew him.
I met Wade nearly 15 years ago through our running group. We trained together, and I completed my first marathon with him by my side. I especially remember our long runs, when Wade would often choose the scenic route through nature rather than the pavement, running through trails covered in fallen leaves. His love of the outdoors was infectious.
Jai and I were also fortunate to join Wade and Lisa on a trip to Africa, which remains my most memorable vacation.
I had the privilege of witnessing Wade’s courage during his illness. He faced every challenge with strength, grace, and grit, fighting until the very end. I will always admire him for that.
Wade’s memory will be forever cherished. We are deeply grateful for the time we shared with him and will miss him dearly.