Anyone who participated in sports in Etowah County knew of the gentle soul that was Gary Wells.
Wells was a staple at local high school sporting events, usually on the sidelines, armed with a camera and a smile. The coach turned photographer died at the age of 84 on April 6, 2025.
Wells coached numerous boys and girls basketball teams, as well as softball teams. He was also a proud member of the YMCA and The Golden Tigers club. Wells graduated from Gadsden High School in 1959 and graduated later from Jacksonville State University. After completing his education, Wells became employed by Republic Steel, later known as Gulf States Steel.
Wells retired from the steel plant after more than 30 years on the job. While at Gulf States Steel, Wells served as Clerical Union President.
Wells wore many metaphorical hats, including the hats of husband, father and grandfather. Wells was married to his beloved wife, Judy B. Wells, until her death in January earlier this year. The couple lived together in Glencoe.
Wells’ legacy lives on in the special moments he captured with his camera and the countless lives he touched, as well as the loved ones left to cherish his memory.
Funeral services for Wells were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Village Chapel, for Wells. Burial followed at Crestwood Memorial Cemetery. Paul Millirons officiated.
Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Judy B. Wells; mother, Opal Wells; father, Coy Wells; daughter, Kristi Lynn Wells; grandson, Jay Pruett; brother, Jimmy Wells.
He is survived by his children, Kim Wells (Ronnie) Brackett, Kelly (Morris) Pruett, and Coy (Erin) Wells; grandchildren, Jackson Wells, Avery Wells, and Randi Pruett (Trey) Goodwin; sister, Kathy Snyder; niece, Courtney Griffith, special family friend, Kim “Emer” Nails; and his beloved fur babies.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Glencoe Athletic Foundation for girls sports, P.O. Box 5187 Glencoe, AL 35905.
The family wishes to express a special thanks to all family, friends, caregivers and Southerncare New Beacon Hospice for their care and support.
Wells was a special friend to The Messenger and was instrumental in its coverage of local high school sports. The Messenger relied on Wells for his fantastic photographs and his sideline notes. His friendship will be missed.
