Leon Wells Sr.

March 3, 1947 - January 8, 2022

On Saturday, January 8, 2022, just before daybreak at Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, VA, God whispered into the ears of our beloved Leon Wells, Sr.,” enter into the joy of the Lord.” God knew he had been battling severe medical issues, yet he never gave up but faced life challenges with a smile. Leon was raised in a Christian home, born to the late Clifford B. Wells, Sr., and Martha A. Wells on March 3, 1947, in Greensville County, VA. He was the fifth born and the fourth birth (courtesy of the previous conceptions of his twin sisters Rose “Rita” and Theresa “Resa”) out of twelve siblings, three of his siblings preceded him in transition: Clarence Wells, Clifford B. Wells, Jr., and Mildred Naomi Wells Rice (Linnel Rice - deceased). Leon was educated in the public school system of Greensville County and attended E.W. Wyatt High School. He joined the United States Army and served his country for over twenty-two years, culminating his military career by retiring from the U.S. Army 80th Infantry Division at the rank of Staff Sergeant. After working more than three decades at Philip Morris USA, Inc., he would retire a second time as a Senior Production Machine Mechanic. Leon left home at a very young age, facing many uncertainties and challenges; he never strayed away from the values taught to him by his parents and relatives. He was baptized and accepted Christ at an early age and joined Zion Baptist Church of Purdy, VA. He actively participated in church worship services if his health would allow. Later, he would increase his commitment to serving God by joining the Zion Baptist Church Male Chorus. Through all his trials and tribulations, he testified, “Yes, God is Real,” and despite the pain, “There is a Bright Side Somewhere.” At the age of seventeen, Leon met the love of his life, Ethel Jean Wright; it was love at first sight. They were married two years later, and together they had two children: Leon “Monty” Wells. Jr, who preceded him in transitioning on April 23, 2020, and Deon "Salahdeen" Wells. Leon was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, soldier, coworker, and good friend. He possessed the “Wells Spirit,” visiting his relatives and friends any time of the day or night. Leon was known for having a generous heart, infectious smile, and living by his motto, “There is no such thing as an individual, only God, and family!” Leon leaves to cherish his memories: his beloved, friend, caregiver, and devoted wife of fifty-five years, Ethel, loving son, Deon (Salahdeen); seven sisters: Rose Washington (John), Theresa Gaillard, Deloris Ransom, Peggy A. Carpenter (Grady deceased) all of Jersey City, NJ, Carol J. Wells of Henrico, VA, Tricia Newsome (Arlester) of Petersburg, VA, Ruth Jeannette Curtis (Gary-deceased) of Woodbridge, VA, one brother, Ronnie Wells (Gloria) of Savannah, GA., two sisters-in-law; Alice M. Wells and Charlotte Wright (Charles-deceased) both of Richmond, VA; and one brother-in-law, Stanley B. Wright of Richmond, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, family, and friends.