Following a lengthy illness, longtime harness racing industry participant J. Wade McCoy of Cambridge, Ont. passed away peacefully on Sept. 13, 2025 at the age of 60 with his devoted partner of 28 years, Joan McManaman, by his side.

Born on Aug. 20, 1965, in Saint John, N.B., Wade was the son of the late Everett and Marguerite McCoy. He was also predeceased by his brother, Jody McCoy. 

A gifted and lifelong horseman, Wade began his journey in harness racing by jogging his first horse for his father.  As a teenager, he honed his skills with Mike and Joan Campbell. In 1985, he moved to Florida to join the Jim Miller Stable, where he celebrated his first two-minute win as a driver at Brandywine. He later worked for the legendary John Simpson Sr. at Hanover Shoe Farms, helping to develop many champion racehorses. 

In 1991, Wade relocated to Ontario, where he established his own stable and trained the exceptional open class pacing mare Ms Magic. Over the years, he worked alongside respected figures such as George Peters of Brylin Stables and Hall of Famer Bill O'Donnell. He later continued his lifelong dedication to the sport through his time with Woodbine Entertainment Group/Woodbine Mohawk Park as a paddock judge. 

Beyond horse racing, Wade was an avid sports fan. He proudly cheered for the Boston Bruins and Toronto Blue Jays and just as proudly rooted against the Toronto Maple Leafs. His spirited commentary and passion for the game will be dearly missed by all who knew him. 

Wade will be lovingly remembered by his partner, Joan McManaman; his daughter, Kaela Cardillo; and grandsons, Jaxon and Zackary. Cherished brother of Jamie, Michael (Heather) David and Rhonda. Dearest brother-in-law of Laurie (Dale), Laura (Dave) and Cathy (Mike) as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Interment and a Celebration of Wade’s Life will be held in Saint John, N.B. at a later date.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Wade McCoy.