James E. Wells

James “Jim” Earl Wells, Sr.
May 2, 1936 – August 6, 2025

James “Jim” Earl Wells, Sr., 89, passed away on August 6, 2025. Born on May 2, 1936, Jim lived a full and remarkable life, wearing many hats over the years — and wearing each one with pride, humor, and heart.

Jim served in the U.S. Navy in the 1950s aboard the Essex-class aircraft carrier USS Tarawa (CV-40), beginning a lifelong commitment to hard work and service. After his time in the Navy, he worked for Ford Motor Company for 37 years, where he was given the nickname “Fargo.” A strong advocate for his coworkers, he was deeply involved with the union, serving at one point as union president. Even in retirement, he stayed connected through Ford retiree breakfasts with old friends.

A man of many talents, Jim owned gas stations, ran a tow truck business, had an auto shop, and could fix or build just about anything. He poured those skills into his church, building much of it himself and remodeling the fellowship hall, which is dedicated in his name. His faith was a deeply rooted part of who he was. Jim served for years as a church trustee, traveled with The Glory Revelators, and cherished the many friendships he made there.

Jim’s passions extended far beyond work. He had a lifelong love of both baseball and bowling. As a young man, he worked with his brother as a pinsetter at a bowling center. As an adult, he was a devoted coach and mentor — running children’s bowling leagues, coaching youth baseball, refereeing soccer and football, and umpiring for the American Amateur Baseball Congress, where he served as Umpire-In-Chief. Through that role, he traveled annually to New Mexico to umpire the Connie Mack World Series.

In retirement, Jim found great joy driving a school bus. He adored his bus kids and was famous for clearing out the claw machine at North Lanes, one quarter at a time, walking away with bags full of stuffed animals to give to them.

Jim was the kind of man who would drop everything to help a loved one — whether that meant remodeling a room, running electric lines, installing a hot water heater, or lending a hand in any way he could. His charm, quick wit, and genuine interest in people meant he never met a stranger.

His last year was spent on one final adventure, moving into Kentridge Senior Living, where he left a lasting impression on many of the staff and residents. He was well cared for by staff who grew to love him — and he loved them in return.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Bob, Bill, Steve, and Pauline; wife Mildred “Midge” Wells; children Danny Wells, Darlene Lukens, Fred Wells, Sr., and Mark Jones; and granddaughter Julia Wells.

He is survived by sons and daughter David Wells, James (Jim) Jr. and Sonia Wells, Shane and Teresa Wells, Steve Jones, Kim Bishoff; grandchildren Dana, Tommy, Stephanie, Brian, Zach, Collin, Josiah, James (Jimmy) III, Alexa, Chase, Colton James, Fred Jr., Cassidy, Kennah, Carrie, Jessica, Julie, and Adam; and 24 great-grandchildren.

Jim’s legacy is one of service, love, and generosity. He was a man with a million stories to tell, and he will be remembered not only for his many accomplishments, but for the way he made everyone he met feel valued and special.

Calling hours will be held at Home Missionary Baptist Church on Tuesday, August 12, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m. A viewing will take place at the church on Wednesday, August 13, from 9:30–10:30 a.m., immediately followed by the funeral service. Interment will follow at Northlawn Memorial Gardens at 12:00 p.m.

Arrangements entrusted to Adams Mason Funeral Home (330) 535-9186