Deacon Leo Wells answered the Master’s call from earthly labor to heavenly rewards on Monday, December 18, 2023, in Riverside Doctor’s Hospital. His life began on September 15, 1942, son of the late Junious and Gertrude Joyner Wells, of Surry, Virginia.
Deacon Wells loved serving the Lord. He was a member of Zion Baptist Church for more than thirty years, where he served as Chairman of the Deacon’s Board until his health prevented him from doing so. He also sang with the Gospel Tones.
Deacon Wells graduated from Tidewater Community College. He was an avid baseball player and tried out with the New York Yankees but an injury 7005ended his baseball career.
Deacon Wells retired from the Newport News Shipbuilding after twenty-nine years of dedicated service. He also kept himself busy by working at the Hospitality House, doing janitorial services, and driving taxis.
Deacon Wells loved his family. Gatherings with family and friends brought him great joy. As a firm believer, he stood on the scriptures recorded in the 23rd division of Psalms. Deacon Wells will truly be missed by all who knew him, but we find comfort in knowing that he now rests in the arms of Jesus.
Deacon Wells was also preceded in death by his son, Leroy Wells Jr.
Deacon Wells’s memories will forever be cherished by his wife, Irene V. Wells; seven children, Constance Crew, Benita Evans (Dale), Arthur Crew (Paula), Hilda Graham (George), Krystal Jefferson, and Antony Wells; twenty-one grandchildren, twenty-seven great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren; brother, David Wells; devoted friend, Charles “Chubby” Taylor; and a host of other loving relatives and friends.
A funeral service will be held at noon on Saturday, December 23, 2023, at Zion Baptist Church with viewing beginning at 11 a.m.
