Herbert "Herb" Spencer Wakefield III

LIFE STORY Herbert (Herb/Herbie) Spencer Wakefield III was the first-born child to Valerie Branham-Wakefield and the late Herbert Spencer Wakefield II. His life began on November 10, 1968 at Germantown Hospital in Philadelphia. Herb was the oldest son of three siblings. He was preceded in death by his sister, Brittany Marie. Herb received his education initially in the Philadelphia Public School Systems. He was a proud alumni of Martin Luther King High School (MLK) class of 1986. At MLK, he was affectionately known as “Dollar Bill.” He was a student in the first class of the Health Academy. He thoroughly enjoyed a continued relationship and participation with his high school friends. Shortly after graduating from MLK, Herb enlisted in the United States Air Force (USAF), where he served honorably for 21 years. During his service in the USAF, he continued his education and obtained an Associate Degree in Information Systems Technology (2005). After retirement from active duty, he further pursued his education and earned his Bachelors’ Degree in Information Systems Management concentration in Cyber Security (2018). Herb was the dedicated father of three children, David Kenneth (Ace), Herbert Spencer, IV (Que) and Rachelle Marie (Baby Girl) from his union with Rachel Brown. For nearly 15 years, he was a loving and devoted single parent who truly cared for his children. He was extremely supportive and dedicated, ensuring that he never missed an opportunity to be present as they reached milestones in their lives. He also instilled the importance of education and respect into the children whom have excelled academically, spiritually and personally. Most recently, Herb was ecstatic and proud for his son, Que, for graduating with his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and receiving a fully paid scholarship to the prestigious Johns Hopkins University to pursue his doctorates in Chemistry. His daughter, Rachelle, is currently working towards her bachelor’s degree in Public Health. His eldest son, David, is currently working towards his associates in Kinesiology. In addition, he was a mentor, confidant, coach and role-model to many in his community. Herb accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age and was baptized at the Goodwill Baptist Church in Philadelphia, PA. At Goodwill, he was an usher, singer and evangelist. He truly loved God and strived to live a Christian life. He was most recently a member of Mt. Ennon Baptist Church in Clinton, MD where he proudly served on the Culinary Arts Ministry. When he was unable to attend service, he thoroughly enjoyed watching services via livestream from the comfort of his home. Herb’s initial employment began at Hahnemann Hospital where he worked in Patient Transport. On April 21, 1987, he joined the United States Air Force. He was a Ground Radio Operator from 1987 through 1989 at various stateside locations. In 1990, he was assigned to Osan Air Force Base in the Republic of South Korea as a Ground Radio Operator. From June 1990 through April 1999, he served as a Chief Operator of Air Force Satellite Communications Group at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. From April 1999 through January 2004, he worked as an NCOIC Awards Special Programs Radio Operator at Andrews. From January 2004 to January 2007, he was an electromagnetic spectrum manager at Andrews. From January 2007 to December 2007, he worked as a national electromagnetic spectrum manager in Alexandria, Virginia. From 2008-2012, he worked as a Spectrum Manager/Senior Systems Engineer for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of the Chief Information Office (OCIO). From 2012 until his passing he worked as a Spectrum Manager/Senior Systems Engineer for the U.S. Department of Energy (OCIO). Herb very much enjoyed fishing, traveling, cooking, family game nights, and hosting events at his home to name a few. He was a passionate and an avid Philadelphia 76ers and Eagles super fan and certainly enjoyed spending time in his Man Cave. Herb was sure to be present and in full support of all who called upon him. His friends saw him as the “go-to” man for recommending the best eateries around town. His favorite restaurant was “Little Fish” in Waldorf, Maryland. He will be remembered as the “Glue” who kept the family united in so many ways as he truly loved his family. For current updates, you could count on his Facebook and/or Instagram page to keep you in the know. Many people knew him to have his phone nearby and not hesitate to snap photos for memorabilia and be sure to share. Early in the morning of June 26, 2019, angels were dispatched to escort his spirit to his eternal resting place in heaven. Herb’s memories, love and legacy remains with his mother, Valerie; his children, David, Herbert (Que) and Rachelle; his sister, Lynnelle (Terrence), two brothers Justin (Atiya) and Brian (Selena); seven aunts, four uncles, six nieces, three nephews, godchildren and a multitude of cousins, other relatives, long-time friends and supporters. In Lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Herb may be directed to the Weinberg Intensive Care Unit at Johns Hopkins Hospital, One Charles Center, 100 N. Charles Street, Suite 234, Baltimore, MD 21201. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Herbert "Herb" Spencer Wakefield III please visit our Sympathy Store.