William Henry Wells

William Henry Wells, affectionately known as Bill or Billy, passed away on January 26, 2026, at the age of 87. He was born on January 15, 1939, in Bronx, New York, to the late Daisy and Arthur Wells. William was one of six siblings. He was preceded in death by four siblings, Peggy, Gilbert, Warren and Norman, and is survived by his beloved sister, Ruth Ann.

William shared 56 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Betty Jean Wells, a partnership marked by love, faith, and steadfast commitment. Together they raised three children: Michele (son-in-law Bryan), Jennifer, and William (daughter-in-law Bridget) and a daughter Sancha from a previous marriage. He was a proud grandfather (Pepa) to Travis (wife Sophia), Derrick (wife Brandy), Marcus (wife Brittany), Jordan, and Jadyn, and a cherished great-grandfather to Ayden, Ayva, Olivia, and Evelyn. In addition to his children, William was blessed with a bonus son, Nyle (wife Joyce), whom he loved as his own, and a bonus grandson, Hudson, who brought him great joy. He is also survived by brothers- and sisters-in-law, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

At just 17 years old, William joined the United States Navy, beginning a distinguished military career that spanned 22 years. He served two tours during the Vietnam War, was stationed aboard the USS Saratoga, and later served as a company commander at the Naval Training Center before retiring with honor. His service reflected a deep sense of duty, discipline, and patriotism. He continued that sense of duty in retirement by joining the VFW as an active member.

Following his military service, William and Betty built a life rich in community and lasting friendships across New York, Virginia, and New Jersey, ultimately settling in Florida in 1977. There, they joined Southside Estates Baptist Church, where William faithfully served as a Royal Ambassador leader and usher. When the church relocated and became Kernan Blvd Baptist Church, William continued his dedicated service with Betty faithfully by his side. More recently, the couple moved to Middleburg, Florida, where they attended Bible Fellowship Church.

William pursued life with curiosity and determination. Known for his love of the open road and traveling, he fulfilled a dream of driving charter buses across the United States, enjoyed riding his motorcycle, and earned an Associate Degree in Business at the age of 60, an achievement that reflected his lifelong commitment to growth and learning.

In his later years, William faced numerous physical health challenges with the same courage and resilience that defined his military service. Through it all, he remained steadfast in faith, devoted to family, and grateful for the life he lived. William Henry Wells will be remembered for his strength, service, humility, and unwavering love for God, family and country. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the generations he leaves behind.

A visitation will be held at COREY-KERLIN FUNERAL HOME PA, located at 940 Cesery Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32211, on February 6, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

The funeral service will take place at Kernan Boulevard Baptist Church, 4000 Kernan Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32224, on February 7, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.