Donald Jerome Wade, a skilled auto mechanic with a 40-year career, was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather known affectionately to friends and family as "Little Man." Born on October 20, 1961, the 52-year-old Black man was a cherished member of his Columbus, Ohio, community. Those who loved him remember a dedicated family man who was deeply connected to his wife, Linda Wade, and his mother, Diana Wade. He was a father to many, leaving behind sons Demario Dailey, Donald Jr., and Donald Cowan, and daughters Remona Hester, Tira Wade, Carla and Carlena Hester, and Katrina and Kaira Cowan, as well as numerous grandchildren and siblings.
The evening of Friday, May 23, 2014, turned tragic in the South Linden neighborhood of Columbus. Around 9 p.m., shots were fired on the 1200 block of East 17th Avenue, and Donald Wade was struck by the gunfire. First responders rushed him to the OSU Wexner Medical Center in critical condition.
Despite the efforts of medical staff, he succumbed to his injuries the following day, May 24, 2014. His death was ruled a homicide, leaving his extensive family and community devastated by the sudden act of violence.
The Columbus Division of Police homicide unit immediately began an investigation into the shooting. Within days, detectives identified a suspect and secured a warrant for his arrest. Police announced they were searching for 25-year-old Julian Phillips in connection with Donald Wade's murder. Investigators released a description of Phillips, noting a distinctive and prominent tattoo of the words "Most Hated" inked under his eyes. A public appeal was made for anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the police or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers.
The search for Julian Phillips continued for some time, but he was eventually apprehended and brought to justice. He was indicted in Franklin County on charges related to the death of Donald Wade. Court proceedings culminated on May 31, 2017, when Phillips was convicted and sentenced for his role in the killing. He was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter with a gun specification and aggravated burglary.
A judge sentenced Julian D. Phillips to a total of 22 years in prison. The sentence included 10 years for involuntary manslaughter, 6 years for aggravated burglary, and an additional 6 years for the gun specifications, with the terms to be served consecutively. Phillips was admitted to the Lebanon Correctional Institution to begin his sentence. According to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, his expected release date is December 6, 2036.
A week and a half after his death, loved ones gathered to honor Donald Wade's life. A celebration of life service was held on Tuesday, June 3, 2014, at the Greater Liberty Temple C.O.G.I.C. on Windsor Avenue in Columbus. Following the service, he was laid to rest at Union Cemetery. While the criminal case has concluded with a conviction and lengthy prison sentence, the family and friends of "Little Man" continue to mourn the loss of a man who meant so much to them.
