Wade "Butch" Melvin Gushee

Wade Melvin "Butch" Gushee, 75, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, went to be with the Lord on August 22, 2025. He was born on January 27, 1950, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Frankie Minirith and Jack Gushee. Wade grew up alongside his sisters, Janet, Jane, and Jacqueline. After graduating from high school, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served his country as a combat medic from 1969 to 1971. Butch endured the hardships of being a prisoner of war and was recognized for his extraordinary courage on the battlefield. A decorated Army veteran, his commendations include the Bronze Star for heroism after entering battle while under fire, the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Army Good Conduct Medal. Following his time in the Army, Wade pursued higher education and earned his Master's degree from Columbia University. He was later honored with a Doctorate. He went on to work in several fields before discovering his true calling as a nursing home administrator, where his compassion and leadership touched many lives. Wade married the love of his life, Patty, on September 19, 2000. Together, they made their home in Bartlesville, where they built a life full of love, faith, and family. Twenty-five years ago, Wade dedicated his life to the Lord at the Cowboy Camp Meeting in Lenapah, Oklahoma. He later became a pastor with Cornerstone Hospice and was a dedicated member of Victory Worship Center for the past 12 years, where he also served as a deacon for part of that time. His faith was the cornerstone of his life; he lived it out through service, kindness, and love for others. Wade is remembered by his children — Matthew Gushee, Mary Katherine Anderson, Jennifer Gushee, Margret Kirkpatrick, Kyla White, and Kelcie White — along with their families. He especially cherished being a grandfather. He also loved his dogs, who were constant companions throughout his life. He enjoyed attending church, cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals, fishing, golfing, reading, going to movies, taking long drives with Patty, collecting clothes of all styles, and was well-known for his love of shoes. Above all, he loved the life he built with Patty and the time spent with family. Wade is survived by his wife, Patty, of the home; his sister, Janet Hames; his children and 13 grandchildren; and many other family members and friends who loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frankie and Jack; his sisters, Jane and Jacqueline; and his son, Cody White. Wade will be remembered as a faithful servant of God, a proud and decorated veteran, and a man whose legacy of strength and devotion will continue through those who knew him. Arrangements are under the direction of Carter Davis and the Davis Family Funeral Home and Crematory Walker-Brown Chapel. Online condolences and remembrances may be shared at www.DavisFamilyFuneralHome.com

Wade "Butch" Melvin Gushee

January 27, 1950 - August 22, 2025