Wade Benz

Gary “Wade” Benz, Jr.  joined his Lord and Savior on Friday, January 26, 2024. Wade was a beloved father, husband, son, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend. His contagious smile, sense of humor, and enthusiasm for conversation captivated the attention of all he encountered.

Wade was welcomed to the world by Gary and Diane Benz on November 14, 1979, in Nashville, TN.  Wade’s early career included modeling, acting, and news broadcasting, all before the age of 18. He was fascinated by new technology, current events, and politics. He was a devout Christian and proud alumni of Christ Pres Academy (CPA), Western Kentucky, and Belmont University. After college, Wade partnered with his father Gary in business which meant the world to him. Wade thirsted for knowledge and was an avid reader of biography’s and business journals. 

Wade enjoyed vacationing on the beach in Florida where, in 2010, he met and fell in love with his wife, Natalie. They married the following year. They built a house in the heart of Franklin and welcomed 4 beautiful children, whom he adored more than anything. Especially daddy-daughter dances with his oldest daughter, Sawyer, taking his son, Owen, fishing on a Sunday morning, bringing his daughter, Remy on fun daddy-daughter dates to grab donuts and spending special time with his youngest, his daughter Sully.

Wade never met a stranger, was a friend to many, fiercely loyal to his family, and left an impact on countless lives throughout his journey. 

Wade is survived by his loving wife Natalie, daughters, Sawyer Kate, Remington Ryan “Remy”, Sullivan Roe “Sully”, and son, Owen Wade; parents, Gary and Diane Benz, sister, Stephanie (Jody) McBrayer; brother Chase (Tessa) Benz; Father and Mother-in-law, Mike and Kelly Roebuck; Brother-in-law, Michael (Hannah) Roebuck, Christopher (Mallory) Roebuck, Ryan Roebuck, nieces, Sarah-Clayton McBrayer; Shiloh and Noah Benz, Riley and Blake, Charlie and Millie, nephews, Tripp and Phillip Roebuck.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Christ Presbyterian Academy in honor of the “Unseen Stories” project that Wade passionately supported for a campus athletic/wellness facility. Wade was an avid fan of CPA Athletics, and he loved the way school spirit created deep community. Visit cpalions.org/give > designate Unseen Stories to make a gift. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Rolling Hills Community Church in Franklin, TN. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM with the Service starting at 2:00 PM all held at Rolling Hills Community Church located at 1810 Columbia Ave. Franklin, TN 37064.

A private burial will be following the service for family.