Kenneth A. Wells

In Loving Memory of Kenneth Allen Wells Sr.
Sunrise: September 6, 1940
Sunset: February 12, 2026
Kenneth Allen Wells Sr., 85, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026. He was born on September 6, 1940, in Trickham, Texas, to Ollie May Hull Wells and Charlie Edward Wells.
Kenneth grew up and attended school in Coleman County, Texas. On May 20, 1960, he married the love of his life, Patsy Rowena Patterson. Together they built a life centered on faith, hard work, and deep devotion to family.
Kenneth began his career working in the oil field as a truck driver before becoming an over-the-road haul truck driver for more than 40 years. Known affectionately as "Diesel Dad," he took great pride in his work and the friendships he made along the way.
He and Patsy were blessed with four children: Kenneth "Ken" Wells Jr. and wife Rene of Flower Mound, Texas; Angie Wells Johnson of Abilene, Texas; Sonia Wells Baker of Merkel, Texas; and John Wells and wife Emma of Amarillo, Texas. Kenneth was a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
He is also survived by his sister, Reta Pavelka of Abbott, Texas; sister-in-law Johnnie Howell and Ervin and their sons and grandchildren; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Kenneth loved his family deeply and was especially proud of his children and their accomplishments. He enjoyed fishing, playing bingo, and faithfully playing the Texas Lotto. He played the same numbers for years and had them memorized, determined never to miss playing for fear of winning without a ticket. He also enjoyed writing poems and songs, leaving behind memories and words that will continue to comfort those who loved him.
Kenneth faced many health challenges in recent years, but he was a true fighter until the very end. His personal motto, "Accept and overcome," was not just something he said - it was how he lived.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Ollie Wells; Ruth and Jimmy Long; Sharlene and Jack Gilbreath; Johnny Pavelka; his son-in-law, Gene Johnson; his beloved wife, Patsy Rowena Wells; nephew Ricky Gilbreath; and niece Debra Gilbreath.
At Kenneth's request, a private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
His legacy of strength, perseverance, and love will live on through the many generations of family who were blessed to call him Dad, Pappaw, and "Diesel Dad."