William “Bill” Wells Sr.

William "Bill" Walter Wells

June 24, 1940 – August 27, 2025

William "Bill" Walter Wells, 85, of Republic, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 24, 1940, in Corning, Arkansas, to Claude Wellsand Iva Penrod. Bill was one of four children and was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Bessie. He is survived by his devoted wife and high school sweetheart of 65 years, Shirley Wells, his brother Claude "Sonny" Wells, and his five children: Connie Bryant, Laura LaBounty, Tabatha Rolland, Will Wells, and Michael Wells. Bill's greatest joy was his large and loving family, including dozens of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom feel deeply blessed to have had the greatest grandfather this world has known. At the age of 10, Bill moved with his family from Neelyville, Missouri, to St. Louis, where he attended McKinley High School. There, he met the love of his life, Shirley, and in1960 they were married. Bill became a machinist, completing his apprenticeship at McDonnell Douglas, and began a lifelong career in the trade. In the mid-1970s, he and his family relocated to Marshfield, Missouri, where he became deeply rooted in the community. He was a proud member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, Webster County Lodge #98, serving as Grand Master in 1979. Professionally, he worked for Plessy and Lily Tulip before spending 25 years with General Electric, retiring in 2000. After retirement, Bill and Shirley moved to Republic, Missouri, to be closer to their grandchildren. For the last 25 years, he delighted in attending their ball games, school events, and family gatherings. Whether it was Little League baseball, basketball, soccer, or football, "Grandpa Bill" was always there-cheering the loudest, encouraging, and celebrating every moment. Bill will always be remembered for his light spirit, his gift of storytelling, and his steadfast faith. He was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Republic, where his quiet strength and unwavering belief in Christ touched many lives. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and faith that will carry on through his family and all who knew him.

Services

Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Greenlawn South Funeral Home in Springfield, Missouri. Funeral services will take place Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Greenlawn South Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at Hazelwood Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to First Baptist Church of Republic.