Richard Douglas WadeJuly 12, 1948 - April 4, 2009Richard Douglas Wade, 60, passed away Saturday.He was born in Albany to Jackson and Thelma Wade. He had a sister, Judy Stephens, who preceded him in death. He graduated from Albany Union High School in 1966 and married Donna Abrell of Lebanon on August 15, 1971.  They have two daughters, Julia Wade, 26 and Karla Wade, 24, both of Albany.During and after high school Richard was involved in many bands as a vocalist and keyboard player. He traveled the United States and Canada playing and singing until Julia and Karla were born and he adopted the role of father. Richard served on staff at Albany First Assembly of God for 22 years, where he worked in a variety of positions and capacities. At the time of his resignation in 2008 he was serving under the title of Director of Jail and Community Assistance Ministries.Richard split his time between his work at the church and facilitating what began as a prison ministry for over 12 years. He directed the Oregon State Penitentiary Choir, and acted as the chaplain of Linn County Jail, Mill Creek Correctional Institution, and Santiam Correctional Facility, while also beginning Free on the Inside, now a non-profit organization based in Albany.Richard lived and breathed music. It was his passion and the tool he used to reach the lost. Richard could communicate through his talent in ways most can't communicate in words. He drew in those who were hesitant about church, and skeptical about religion through his music and relatable language and lifestyle. Richard believed whole heartily in God's grace, and taught others that it is only through and because of that grace that we can live abundantly. His heart was burdened for those that may not have had a secure place in society, those walking through and coming out of life's most difficult situations, and those who found themselves longing for a family. He opened his heart and his home to those he ministered to, and truly considered them part of his family. Richard spoke acceptance as of the utmost importance, and lived that to the fullest. He loved people for who they are and who God made and purposed them to be, not what they did. His heart and burden for the people of our community is undeniable and far reaching. Free on the Inside will continue to operate and provide the variety of services Richard so deeply believed in under the leadership and direction of his daughter Julia and the board of directors.Richard's service will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Albany First Assembly of God. Donations to Free on the Inside are being accepted in his memory and can be sent to AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home.   AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling the arrangements ( www.aasum-dufour.com ).