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His calling to help others extended far beyond the classroom, reflecting a generous spirit that touched many throughout his community.

Deacon Raymond Lee Shade passed away on September 5, 2026, at the age of 77 in Iowa City, Iowa. Born on April 25, 1949, in Des Moines, Iowa, he lived a life marked by faith, service, learning, and a deep commitment to those around him. 

Raymond devoted himself to education as a teacher at Merrill Middle School, where he made a lasting difference in the lives of his students. He especially cherished tutoring, offering encouragement and guidance with patience and care. His calling to help others extended far beyond the classroom, reflecting a generous spirit that touched many throughout his community.

Faith was the center of his life. He found a spiritual home at Mt. Olive Church, where he became a deacon. He later served faithfully as a deacon at Amazing Grace Church, where his deep faith and steadfast leadership touched the lives of all who knew him.

He also found joy and fellowship in Bible study and music, lifting his voice in church choirs and singing groups. His commitment to serving others was reflected in his volunteer work with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and local homeless shelters, as well as his involvement with Feeding the Homeless Bread Ministries.

Through these acts of service, Raymond lived out his faith in meaningful and compassionate ways. 

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Through these acts of service, Raymond lived out his faith in meaningful and compassionate ways.

Raymond embraced many interests that brought him joy throughout his life. A devoted Chicago Bears fan, he enjoyed football, wrestling, and golf. His creativity was also shown through his love of art, whether he was sketching, creating etched glass pieces, or painting on canvas.

Among the accomplishments Raymond held with pride was his membership in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., through the Omega Chapter at Drake University, a meaningful part of his lifelong journey.

Raymond will be lovingly remembered by his children, Jolina Haley, Montoya Lewis- Shade, and Braylin Shade, as well as his stepchildren, many grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his brothers, Eugene Shade, George Shade Jr., Tim Shade, and Richard Shade; his sisters, Vanessa Shade, Veatta Shade, and Marlene Shade; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George Shade Sr. and Margaret Shade, as well as Ronald Shade, Floyd Shade Sr., Barbara Sinnah-Yovonie, Jennifer Shade-Butts, and Theresa Shade.

Deacon Raymond Lee Shade will be remembered as a man of conviction, kindness, and dedication—someone who gave generously of himself in the classroom, the church, and the community. His life stands as a lasting testament to service, fellowship, and enduring faith. His family will carry his memory forward with love, gratitude, and pride in the example he set through his faith, service, and compassion.