Shirley Jean (Bennett) Slade

Minister Bolade Slade, born Shirley Jean Bennett, entered this life on August 13, 1949, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the late Charles H Bennett and Marie Hayes. From her earliest years, she carried a spirit of compassion, wisdom, and an unshakable faith that touched every person she encountered. 

EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION

Bolade was educated in the Pittsburgh Public Schools, attending McKelvy Elementary School and Vann Elementary School, and graduating proudly from Westinghouse High School (Class of 1969). She continues her academic pursuits at the University of Pittsburgh, earning her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1975.

MARRIAGE & FAMILY

1973, she married Marshall Kenneth Calloway, and from this union her daughter, Isis, was born. He preceded her in death.

In 1996, she joined in holy matrimony with her beloved husband, Elder Roland Slade, Sr. Their 30 years shared together were nothing short of remarkable- rooted in love, ministry, and unwavering purpose. Elder Roland lovingly walked with he through every chapter of her testimony, including her courageous battle to reach her final reward: Eternal rest with her Heavenly Father.

Minister Bolade was a devoted mother in every sense of the word. She nurtured her children with love, wisdom, and strength- but she did far more than raise them physically. She raised them spiritually, teaching them how to walk with God, how to trust Him, and how to hear His voice. Because of her, each of her children blossomed in their own spiritual journeys and grew in their faith.

Minister Bolade's devotion to her children extended far beyond the natural responsibilities of motherhood. She raised them in the spirit-- covering them in prayer, teaching them how to walk with God, how to trust Him, and how to hear His voice. Because of her, each of her children blossomed in their own spiritual journeys and grew in their faith. 

Minister Bolade's devotion to her children extended far beyond the natural responsibilities of motherhood. She raised them in the spirit- covering them in prayer, teaching them the Word, and guiding them toward a vibrant relationship with God. Her spiritual leadership helped each child prosper, flourish, and grow into the men and women God called them to be. 

* Minister Isis L. Chatman

* Vernon N. Chatman

* Roland Slade, Jr. (Danielle)

* Gale Harris (Thomas)

* Minister Camilla A. King

* Suzanne R. Williams

* Pastor William Thompson, Jr.

* Kenneth Strother (LaTonia)

* Debbie Kelly

She adored and poured into her grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy:

* Tyreque M. Calloway

* McKenzie Harris

* Roland Slade III

* Malik Slade

* Kenneth Ralph Strother

* Azaria Strother

* Azure Strother

* William Thompson III, a.k.a. "Billy"

Family was her heart, and she devoted her life to praying for, guiding, and uplifting everyone connected to her.

SIBLINGS

She was the sister of:

Living:

     * Lester Bennett, Sr.

     * Stanley Bennett, a.k.a. "Abdul Hakeem Saalih"

Preceded in Death:

     * Frances Winbush

     * Maxine Roberts a.k.a "Maci" (Carl)

     * Joan Johnson (Thomas)

     * Thomas Bennett, Sr. a.k.a. "Hasaan"

     * Tony Bennett (Joanne)

     * Charles Bennett, Jr. a.k.a. "Sonny Boy"

She also leaves to cherish her memory a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, great-grandchildren, cherished friends, her entire Petra Family, and countless loved ones whose lives she touched. All of them mourn her passing and celebrate the love she poured into them- and the love they wholeheartedly poured back into her. 

A LIFE OF SERVICE, MINISTRY & PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE

Minister Bolaade was a living example of the virtous womman of Proverbs 31. Her life, choices, character, and service all reflected a deep and unwavering dedication to God. Every role she accepted- both in ministry and in her professional career- became an extension of her God-ordained assignment to uplift, educate, and empower others.

Her career in social services and community support spanned decades and touched thousands of lives, including the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh, The Center for Healthy Hearts and Souls, Allegheny County Children, Youth, and Families, The Center Avenue YMCA Child Care Center.

Among her many accomplishments, one of Minister Bolade's most extraordinary contributions was her 20 years of service as the president of the Board of Directors for Ruth's Way, Inc. Although her daughter Isis founded the organization, it was Minister Bolade who became its anchor- its backbone- using her strength, guidance, and God-given wisdom to help build, maintain, and uphold the entire mission. With her son Vernon faithfully by her side, she poured her heart into enduring the organization not only survived but also flourished.

Her professional path was never about title---it was about ministry through service. She truly lived out her calling.

HER HEALTH JOURNEY: A TESTIMONY OF STRENGTH

Two years ago, Minister  Bolade received the medical diagnosis of pre-leukemia and pre-myeloma--diagnoses she never accepted as her identity. She acknowledged the information, but she refused to own it, because she believed deeply in the promises of her Heavenly Father. God instructed her to fight, and she fought with extraordinary strength, dignity, and faith. She maintained her determination, her grace, and--even in the most challenging moments--her beautiful smile. Bolade carried herself with courage, fighting literally until her very last breath.

On November 14, 2025, Minister Bolade Slade was called home to glory peacefully, surrounded by the love, comfort, and prayers of her family. She transitioned just as she lived--with faith, beauty, and unwavering trust in God. She now has the Eternal Victory in Jesus.

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