The community of Brownwood was stunned to learn of the sudden loss of well-known and beloved local radio talent, Brian Wade, who passed away unexpectedly in his home early Saturday morning.

Brian’s brother, Robert Wade, posted an announcement on Facebook, that reads, “Many of our first generation SEAL students were blessed to be coached by my little brother Brian. Two of the major things that define who Brian is would be his love of children and his giving heart and service to others. Years ago Brian started the Toys for Kids toy drive thru KOXE. Our family would like to honor Brian by exploding this toy drive this year. In leu of flowers we are asking that everyone donate a toy to Toys for Kids in Brian’s name.”

The post had been shared almost 200 times in less than 24 hours. The Wade family will have a large box to collect toys in the SEAL Gym lobby beginning Monday, November 28th. Anyone can come in and drop off a toy. Several local businesses have also pledged to place boxes for toy collections in Brian’s honor, including: Caldwell Banker offices, Car Corral, Countryside Therapy, the Heartland Association of Realtors, the Rage Salon, Early City Hall, Section Hand Steakhouse, Prosperity Bank, Willie’s T’s, Apollo Computers, Brady Health Care Services, Lone Star Home and Loan, the Runaway Train Cafe, KG Dance Studio, Bob’s Fuels, the Brownwood Fire Department, Jacob’s Pharmacy, and Anytime Fitness.

A memorial service for Brian Wade will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at Coggin Avenue Baptist Church in Brownwood. Wade is remembered to have loved working with kids, and was instrumental in starting the annual Toys for Kids radio toy drives. The Wade family has requested toy donations be made to Toys for Kids in lieu of flowers, to honor Brian’s active work in the community. Toys can be donated at the memorial service, or can be dropped off at Wendlee Broadcasting, 600 Fisk, in downtown Brownwood.

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