Garvin Charles Wells, Jr.

Garvin Wells, Jr., a devoted father, husband, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in New Bern, North Carolina, on Friday, September 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 71.

Born on June 28, 1954, in Hyde Park, New York, Garvin grew up with a deep love for the outdoors and an enduring passion for sports. He was an avid hiker and scout in his youth and a proud member of the Roosevelt High School wrestling team. He graduated from FDR High School in 1972 and continued his studies at Dutchess Community College, where he also wrestled, before earning his Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Union College in 1976.

Garvin’s professional journey reflected his sharp mind, tireless work ethic, and talent for problem-solving. He began his career with Automatic Systems Developers (ASD) in Poughkeepsie, later relocating to North Carolina to manage operations at Cabletronics, a division of ASD. In 1981, he returned to Poughkeepsie, where he spent 21 years as a project manager with ASD. His career flourished as he became Vice President of Operations at Spence Engineering Company, a division of Circor International, in Walden, New York, and later an Operations Manager at Howmet Aerospace (Arconic Industries) in Kingston, New York. He retired in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, innovation, and unwavering dedication.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Garvin’s heart belonged to his family. He cherished time spent with his wife of 21 years, Cathy (Ravesi Palmatier) Wells, and took immense pride in the lives and accomplishments of his children: Colleen Reesink-Wells (Arjan Reesink), Brian Wells, Duane Palmatier (Jen Gifford), and Garvin Wells III. He was a joyful and loving grandfather to Audrey Reesink, and his warmth and humor extended to his sister, Geraldine Whitenight, and sister-in-law Kathy Wells, as well as his cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends. He is predeceased by his parents, Garvin Wells, Sr. and Alice (McCormack) Wells, his brother George Wells, and his son Darren Palmatier.

Those who knew Garvin will remember his quick wit, generous laughter, and steadfast devotion to the people he loved. His presence lit up every room, and his boundless love will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Craven County Hospice, 2818 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, NC 28562 or Blood Cancer United (Donate to Blood Cancer United), honoring the compassionate care and causes close to Garvin’s heart.

A celebration of his life will be held at Timothy Doyle Funeral Home in Poughkeepsie, New York, on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m