DUNDEE KZN: The Wades’ Valentines Love Story stretches back 56 years

Tony and Sherlee Wade’s love story is a long-running one – 56 years in fact! While Sherlee was also born a Wade and is a direct descendant of Dundee’s founding fathers, she and Tony are in no way related!

The couple met at Natal University in 1962 and went on to be married in the St James Anglican Church by Rev Matthews on December 19, 1964. Sherlee laughs as she recalls that special day. “Back then, a large wedding was the order of the day.

We ended up having 429 guests, as my mother insisted on inviting every person she knew! It was also a full musical affair, with a choir in the church and performers at the reception in the Moth Hall – this was vogue in those days!

We also had a guard of honour outside the church after the ceremony, with Tony’s university rowing crew forming an arch with their oars.” Sherlee went on to be a legendary teacher in the area, while Tony carved out a highly successful career in the life insurance industry.

He was also the driving force behind the former Dundee Chamber of Business. Sherlee still evaluates speech & drama exams at schools in the area and remains a member of Tourism Dundee – a town that is part of her and Tony’s DNA.

“Our marriage has lasted for 56 years because of being able to forgive, being supportive of each other, a solid friendship and our faith,” she said, adding that the couple have a son and two daughters, as well as nine amazing grandchildren. The Wades are truly part of the town’s fabric.