Wade Lemuel Philbeck was born in Rutherford County on February 24, 1926 and passed away on February 8, 2020 at Hospice of the Carolina Foothills at the age of 96.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Briscoe and Gladys Philbeck and by his brothers; Hubert, Hewitt, Morris, Edwin and Max, sisters; Jennie Thompson, Avis Street, Vertie Dellinger and Doris Stowe.

He worked in textiles and served in the military for 41 years. He was a faithful member of Green Hill Baptist Church where he was music director for 46 years.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Elma Luckadoo Philbeck. The funeral service will be Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at 2:00 PM at McMahan's Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at McMahan's Funeral Home prior to the service. Burial will follow in the Green Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. Folding of the flag ceremony will be provided by the Rutherford County Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Green Hill Baptist Church Cemetery Maintenance fund; 1941 US 64-74 A, Rutherfordton, NC or to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills; P.O. Box 336 Forest City, NC. McMahan's Funeral Home & Cremation Services are in charge of arrangements.