Larry Lee Wells

Larry was born on August 15, 1939, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma to the late Claude Frank and Ruth Jeanice Wells. He was the eldest son of four children. Larry graduated from Shidler High School, served in the United States Army, attended Oklahoma Baptist University and Phoenix University.

Larry became a pastor and was ordained to the ministry at the age of 19. He fell in love and married Wilma Ruby Tate at age 22. Larry became a father at the age of 27 when he and Wilma adopted a baby girl.

Larry pastored churches in Oklahoma, Kansas, Wyoming, Arizona, and California. He had an adventurous spirit. He traveled the world for fun and worked with several missionary organizations. He liked to say that he “lived in all four time zones”. After retiring in 2006, Larry and Wilma moved to Illinois and then to North Carolina where he continued his service in local churches.

Larry was charismatic and gregarious. He loved to express himself through theater, writing and art. He continued to cultivate these passions throughout his lifetime. Larry’s writings were published in local papers, a short story book and Southern Baptist literature. His paintings won awards and were on display throughout his home.

To all who knew him, Larry was devoted to his Lord, his family, his friends, and the color orange. He regularly lit up a room with his bright orange attire (complete with crazy socks) and his infectious smile. There was never a dull moment when Larry was around; he brought joy and life to every conversation.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his sister, Claudette Sue Rahm, and by Wilma Ruby Wells, his wife of 60 years. Larry was devastated by the loss of Wilma in March of this year.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Michelle Wells-Colgate, and son-in-law Stan Colgate, grandchildren Brandon Martin, Rachel Martin, Bradley Colgate, and David Colgate.

Larry and Wilma were advocates for the Alzheimer’s Association for many years. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association, https://www.alz.org/, in Larry’s memory.