Dr. Jay Hochstetler

1958 - 2023

Dr. Jay Hochstetler has peacefully passed away at the age of 65 after a valiant battle with cancer. Jay was born on January 18, 1958, to Dale and Lucile Hochstetler and was the youngest of four siblings.

Jay's educational achievements were a reflection of his dedication and passion for lifelong learning. He held a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Adult Education and Management (Ball State University) and a PhD in Management (North Central University). He excelled in various roles, and he served in leadership for both Grant County Growth Council and the Grant County Chamber. He was Dean of IVY Tech, a temporary professor for Taylor University, an administrator in the LEAP program at Indiana Wesleyan University, and the practice manager at Marion Pediatrics.

Jay was a Business and Management Professor at Anderson University for 17 years. His achievements at AU include being a Sam Walton Fellow, working with Enactus, being the FSB Assessment & Accreditation Director, and Chairperson for Doctoral Dissertation Committees. In 2023, Jay was awarded the highest faculty award, The Morrison Award.

Jay's unwavering faith in Christ was a guiding force in his life, and he was a member of Brookhaven Wesleyan Church. Jay and Kelley directed the college ministry for 31 years, directed VBS programs, and sang in the choir. He was a part of the leadership team and was currently serving as treasurer. His favorite Bible verse, Isaiah 40:31, served as a source of strength and inspiration for him and those around him. His impact was not limited; his generosity, compassion, and wisdom extended to all who knew him. He was a friend to many, and he was always ready with a smile, a kind word, and a listening ear.

Jay loved to travel and hike. He hiked the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim, led missions trips to Costa Rica, and served on a Honduras team. Jay was a devoted husband to Kelley for 38 years, a loving father to Jacob, and a doting grandfather to Liam. His family was the heart of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He is survived by his wife, Kelley; his son, Jacob, and daughter-in-law, Katy; his grandson, Liam; his foster children, Mario (Jennifer) and Jodi; and foster grandchildren.

Though we are brokenhearted, we have hope in the promise of heaven, knowing we will one day reunite with Jay. He touched the hearts of family, students, colleagues, neighbors, and friends alike, and he has left a legacy to be proud of as he truly changed lives around him.

Jay, well done, good and faithful servant. You ran the race well and have earned your reward.

The family will receive visitors from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at Brookhaven Wesleyan Church, 2960 E. 38th St., Marion, IN 46953.

The funeral service will take place at 1:00 pm on Monday, October 2, 2023, at the church with an additional hour of visitation preceding the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Brookhaven Wesleyan Church or Fairmount Camp in honor of Jay's commitment to serving others.

Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.

Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.