Jerry Wells

On May 13, 2026, at the age of 84, Jerry Wayne Wells, a devoted husband, loving dad, proud granddad, cherished brother, beloved uncle, and friend to many, went to his eternal home to be with his Lord and Savior. To know him was to know a man whose life was defined by his faith in the Lord, unwavering love, quiet strength, and a boundless commitment to his family. To his four children, he was simply Dad, to his cherished grandchildren he was Granddad, and to his wife, he was her loving and devoted husband for 43 years. He devoted himself wholeheartedly to those he loved, always placing the needs of others before his own. His greatest joy came not from what he had, but from ensuring that those around him were cared for, supported, and deeply cherished. He was also a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, where he honorably served his country as a Flight Line Crash Rescue Firefighter with dedication and integrity. His military service was a reflection of his deep sense of duty, discipline, and commitment qualities that continued to define his life long after his service had ended. Following his time in the military, he remained deeply connected to his fellow service members and community as a proud lifelong member of the American Legion Post 138 in Bolivar, Missouri. He had a remarkable way of making each person feel important, seen, and safe. Whether through small everyday acts of kindness or the big sacrifices he made without hesitation, he showed his love not just in words, but in everything he did. His family was his world, and he carried the responsibility of protecting and providing for them with pride, humility, and unwavering dedication. He was a steady presence; someone you could always count on. He offered guidance, strength, and comfort during life’s most difficult moments, and his warmth and generosity left a lasting imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Beyond his devotion to family, he found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He had a passion for coaching baseball and proudly led several teams to championship victories, leaving a lasting impact on the young athletes he mentored. He also loved spending time outdoors, whether fishing or hunting. He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Mable Wells; brothers Dick and Tom Wells and granddaughter Emily Wells. He is survived by his wife Janice Wells; children Jeff Wells, Kevin Wells, Janette Joyce, Janell (Scott) Nelson; grandchildren Austin Wells, Jordan (Katie) Nelson, Madison Harris, Jenna (Matthew) Copeland, Alllie Wells, Tiffany Wells and Julia (Kanyon) Degraffenreid; great grandchildren Benny Serrano, Briar Wells and Winnie Copeland; sister Debbie Howlett (Brent Coleman); nephews, nieces and friends who all will forever carry forward his legacy of love. While our hearts ache in his absence, we take comfort in knowing that he is now with the Lord in heaven, at peace and surrounded by eternal love. His love surrounds us still. The lessons he taught us, the sacrifices he made, and the memories we shared will continue to guide us every day. A graveside service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar, Missouri on Thursday May 21, 2026, at 3:00 P.M. In honoring his life, we honor a man who gave everything for the people he loved, a true example of what it means to live selflessly and love unconditionally. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. Memorial contributions and donations can be made in honor and memory of Jerry to the American Legion Post 138 Bolivar - Scholarship Fund and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Jerry Wells

October 13, 1941 - May 13, 2026