Deacon Irvin Lee Slade

Irvin Lee Slade, born September 11, 1933, was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, veteran, diehard Eagles and Dodgers fan, and servant of God. He peacefully departed this life on May 16, 2025, at 6:21 p.m., leaving behind a legacy of strength, service, and love. Born in Reidsville, Rockingham County, North Carolina, Irvin was the beloved son of the late Rufus Slade and Viola Jackson Slade, whom he fondly called “Madear.” After his mother's passing, he spent his summers with his grandmother, Annie B. Jackson, whose homemade biscuits and coconut cake remained among his fondest memories. He was one of eight children and was preceded in death by his siblings Julia Slade, Charles Slade, Henrietta “Teeny” Turner, Idella Ruby Beverly, Rufus Slade Jr., and Willie "Stolly" Slade. He is survived by his sister, Helen Bryant of Union City, Georgia. Irvin proudly served his country as an aircraft refueler in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1956 and was a veteran of the Korean War. After completing his military service, he married his childhood sweetheart, Ruth E. Frye Slade, on April 11, 1956, in Newark, New Jersey. Their bond began in kindergarten at the Hygienic School in Steelton, Pennsylvania, and continued for 41 years until her passing in 1997. Their marriage was one of enduring love and partnership. Following his military service, Irvin worked for the United States Postal Service in Washington, D.C., before relocating with his family to Steelton, Pennsylvania, after Hurricane Agnes in 1972. He then began a new career at the New Cumberland Army Depot, filling fuel tanks for families on the base. He retired from the Depot in 1988; but, true to his energetic and driven spirit, returned to the workforce shortly thereafter. He became a Shared Ride driver and later worked for the Department of General Services for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Eventually, he served as a security guard for Dauphin County, a position he held—and ministered in—faithfully for 16 years. A man of deep faith, Irvin was an active member of his church community. He joined Shiloh Church of God in Christ on January 28, 1979, and was ordained as a Deacon by the late Pastor Carl E. Hines Jr. in December 1991. Over the years, he served faithfully as a Deacon and General Board Member. His many roles at Shiloh included usher, finance team member, honorary missions ministry member, mission security guard, sanctuary choir member, and church custodian—duties he often shared with Ruth. Together, they lovingly cared for the church on 15th and Forster Streets, treating their service not merely as a responsibility, but as devotion to God. Irvin was a proud family man and deeply cherished the life he built with Ruth. He was the loving father of the late Jeffrey S. Slade (Ione Slade of Mechanicsburg, PA), Terrance L. Slade of Harrisburg, PA, Paula M. Slade of Harrisburg, PA, the late Brian M. Slade (Natalie Harris Slade of Steelton, PA), and Tracie E. Wilson (Learchia Wilson) of Conyers, GA. He was also preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Terrance Lee Slade II. Irvin found immense joy in his family, including his 10 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends. Spending time with loved ones was his greatest joy—he often said it kept him young. An avid traveler, Irvin loved experiencing new places and making lasting memories. Among his favorites were his first cruise with his daughter Tracie, a special trip to Jamaica with his grandson Lamont and family, and a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon with his grandson Maurice—experiences he spoke of often and fondly. Irvin Slade lived a full and meaningful life—defined by faith, hard work, love of family, and service to others. His quiet strength, unwavering devotion, and compassionate heart will live on in all who knew him. FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE ENCOURAGED TO CLICK ON THE SHARE A MEMORY TAB TO POST VIDEOS, SHARE MEMORIES, CONDOLENCES, REFLECTIONS OR SIMPLY LEAVE YOUR NAME.

Tributes

Deacon Irvin Lee Slade

September 11, 1933 - May 16, 2025