Herschel Lee Wells

Herschel Lee Wells, affectionately known as “Dean” was a caring father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He departed this earthly life on Thursday, July 11, 2024, after serving eighty-seven years on the Lord’s battlefield. Herschel was born on May 16, 1937, to Horlis Wells and Delma McCann Ware, the first of eleven children in Gainesville, GA.
He accepted Christ at St. John Baptist Church in Gainesville, Georgia at an early age. Herschel was a man with a servant’s heart, always ready to lend a helping hand. His dedication to his family and community was unwavering. He received his formal education at Fair Street School until he enlisted himself into the military.
Herschel served active duty in the United States Army for nine years and earned the rank of sergeant. While in the U.S. Army, he was assigned to a military post in Stuttgart, Germany, and served in the Vietnam War in Southeast Asia. After returning to Gainesville, Georgia, he married Geraldine Martin.
During that time, he was the first black electrician to work for the City of Gainesville and worked for the traffic department, installing and repairing traffic signals. He also worked at Cargill for fifteen years, where he was an integral part of the team that set up the refinery for soybean oil production. He eventually switched careers to the VA Hospital in Decatur, Georgia, which allowed him to earn full retirement after twelve years due to his combined federal service.
Herschel “Dean” was a unique individual who enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was a tell-it-like-it-is man, holding nothing back. His unique personality and straightforward nature left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He enjoyed cooking, fishing and spending time with his loved ones.
Herschel is preceded in death by his parents, Horlis Wells and Delma Ware; his beloved son, Herschel Eric Wells; and his brothers, Leroy Randolph, Johnny Harris, Purcell Wells, and Michael Ware. He is also preceded in death by his sisters, Annie Lois Ware Thomas, Joanne Ware, Janet K. Ware, Bernice Ware and Doris A. Ware.
Herschel’s celebration of life will be remembered by his sons, Ronnie Bell, Milwaukee WI, Kevin Wells (Sonya) of Charleston, SC; Bryan Wells; and Corey Wells of Gainesville, GA; his three grandchildren, Dyanni Curry, Avery Wells, and Caleb Wells of Atlanta, GA; and his siblings, Jerald “Pete” Ware and Brenda “Brent” Mize, both of Gainesville, GA. He is survived by one sister-in-law, Mattie Lee Harris of Gainesville, GA; his best friend, Walt Smith of Gainesville, GA; and a special cousin, Charles (Christine) Harris of Milwaukee, WI. He leaves behind countless nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.