Hi, my name is Christian Wade, and I am reaching out on behalf of my siblings and my father, Godfrey Wade. This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to share, but I believe in the power of community, compassion, and support during life’s most difficult moments.
Who Godfrey Is
Man of Service
Our dad was born in Jamaica and as a teen moved to New York with his mother on a green card as a permanent resident. As a young man, my father later enlisted in the United States Army, 7th Infantry Division, beginning in Aschaffenburg, Germany in the 80’s. His commitment to defending this nation extended both overseas and at home, and he served honorably leaving with many recognitions. He later pursued a career in hospitality as a chef at Braves Stadium and the Georgia State Capitol. In every role, he built lasting connections with customers and regulars, always serving others with care, kindness, and dedication.
Family Man
Godfrey is a family man and a loving father to six children, all U.S. citizens, and a proud grandfather to three granddaughters, also U.S. citizens. He is a caring and supportive partner to his beautiful fiancée who is also a U.S citizen.
Tennis Guru
If you’ve ever encountered Godfrey, you know he is charismatic, animated, and caring on and off of the court. My dad has dedicated his life to teaching tennis to students of all ages, helping many pursue their dreams—whether playing in college, competing on tour, or simply cultivating a lifelong love of the game. Tennis isn’t just a hobby for him; it’s a way of life. Every weekend, he makes it a point to stay active and connect with his friends or children on the court. His passion, discipline, and positive influence have touched countless lives.
Man of God
Lastly, Dad is a true believer of the bible. Though currently separated from his family, Godfrey is leaning on his faith and trusting in God to guide him through this difficult time. He maintains a positive attitude despite the harsh circumstances he is facing. Throughout his life, he has instilled in his children the importance of faith, prayer, and living a life guided by God’s principles, leading by example in both word and action.
What Happened
On September 13th, Godfrey was pulled over and unexpectedly detained by ICE for a traffic violation. After experiencing days of inhuman conditions in the Atlanta ICE detention facility, Godfrey was transferred to the Stewart Detention Center (the largest ICE detention facility in the country) on September 21st. The Stewart Detention Center is overcrowded and our dad has been denied a bed for weeks. This situation has turned life upside down for his children, grandchildren, and fiancee, who are now facing the painful unknown of how long Godfrey will be gone. Most importantly, it has left his fiancee without the steady support of the household, both emotionally and financially.
Legal Update
There is a very real possibility for him to be deported, even though we secured an attorney who submitted a legal motion to temporarily halt deportation. We are currently waiting for his case to be reviewed by a judge which could take anywhere between weeks to months.
Why We’re Asking for Help
Without Godfrey at home, his fiance is left to carry a heavy weight: We are looking to minimize financial catastrophe during his absence. This GoFundMe will help with all the legal expenses it will take to represent him.
Closing
We never imagined we would be in this position, but we know we can’t face it alone. If you feel moved to give, please know that your support will make an immediate difference in facing the financial challenges his potential deportation is bringing. And if you’re not able to donate, sharing this page means the world too.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your prayers, generosity, and love.
Christian Wade & Family
