Jay C. Wade, Ph.D.

Jay was a light and will always be beautiful.

In Remembrance

Dr. Jay Wade, 70, passed away on September 30, 2024, in Bali, Indonesia. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 10, 1954, Jay lived a life defined by intellectual rigor, global curiosity, and a deep commitment to understanding the human experience.

Jay’s academic journey began at Morehouse College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1977. He went on to receive a master’s degree in occupational therapy from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1979, and later a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from the University of Maryland in 1996.

A respected scholar and educator, Jay dedicated his career to advancing the psychology of men and masculinity, identity development, and multicultural issues. His research and writing shaped contemporary understandings of gender and cultural identity, particularly in relation to the experiences of African American men. He served as president of the Society for the Psychological Study of Men and Masculinity within the American Psychological Association and published extensively on cultural diversity, substance abuse treatment, and counseling psychology.

In addition to his academic achievements, Jay held leadership roles throughout his career, including president of New Millennium Psychological Services (2004–2020), associate professor at Fordham University (1996–2014), and senior occupational therapist at Harlem and St. Luke’s Hospitals (1982–1988).

Jay’s passion for cross-cultural understanding extended beyond the classroom and research. As a Fulbright Senior Scholar, he conducted a landmark study on masculinity, spirituality, and life satisfaction among men in Bali and Java. This experience sparked in him a deep personal connection to Indonesia. After his first trip in 2010 Jay returned to Bali two more times before he retired early, selling his home in the Bronx, and relocating permanently to Bali where he embraced the beauty, culture, and community of the island.

He will be remembered not only for his scholarship but also for his warmth, wit, and generosity. Colleagues, students, and friends recall his sharp intellect, thoughtful mentorship, and engaging conversations—whether over coffee or cocktails, or a sumptuous meal.

Outside of his professional life, Jay found joy in books, film, and travel. His library included everything from the mysteries of Dick Francis and James Patterson to the horror of Clive Barker and shelves of autobiographies. He was an avid movie lover, with a special admiration for the classic performances of Bette Davis and James Dean. Jay also watched almost any movie directed by Brian de Palma, Martin Scorsese, and David Lynch.

Jay is survived by his partner, Hardiyanto, and their beloved dogs, Jaka and Moli; his sister, Lisa; brother, Byron; nieces, Tiva Van Cleve (Shaun) and Tanys Overstreet (Shumekia); and nephew, Lance Templeton (Kyra). He was preceded in death by his father, J.C. Wade; mother, Eugenia Wade; and sister, Deborah Templeton.

Jay’s legacy lives on through his scholarship and the many lives he touched as a mentor, colleague, and friend. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.


"And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy."
~from "Desiderata," by Max Ehrmann--Jay's favorite poem

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