Richard Wells

JERSEYVILLE – Richard D. Wells, 97, died at 6:04 p.m., Wednesday, July 29, 2015 at his residence in Jerseyville. He was born on November 1, 1917 in Jerseyville, one of five children born to the late William L. and Dollie (Davis) Wells. Richard attended school in Jerseyville and graduated with the class of 1935 from Jersey Township High School. He began a long career with the Illinois Terminal Railroad after graduation, which was interrupted when he was drafted during World War II. Richard served his country as a Staff Sergeant with the United States Army Air Corps for five years, with most of time being spent overseas in New Guinea and Australia. Following his honorable discharge in 1945, he returned to Jerseyville and to his career the Illinois Terminal Railroad in Alton and became a charter member of VFW Post In Jerseyville.In October of 1946 he married his true love, Wanda L. McIntyre, a sister of his friend Gerald McIntyre at the First Baptist Church in Jerseyville and together they were blessed with 69 years together. Richard loved the outdoors and spent many hours hunting, fishing, gardening, and star gazing. A long love of astronomy led him to grind and silver the lens for his reflecting telescope that he constructed in the 1950’s.Surviving are his wife, Wanda Wells of Jerseyville; a son, William D. Wells of Jerseyville; two granddaughters, Beth Wells of Jerseyville and Jessica (Tim) Wright of Jerseyville; two great-grandsons, Carter and Alex Wright; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, all of whom he loved. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Lela Stanton and three brothers, Milo, Ira and Russell Wells. In keeping with his wishes, his body was gifted to the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. Per his request, no services will be held. A celebration of his life may be planned for a future date. Memorials may be given to a charity of one’s choice. Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville is in charge of arrangements.

Obit Provided By:
Crawford Funeral Home