Sgt. James Wells Jr. was born on November 1, 1953, in the close-knit community of Alcolu, South Carolina, to the late James, Sr. and Lillie Mae Turner Wells. From a young age, James demonstrated a natural sense of responsibility and dedication, traits that would define his life. James proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, dedicating several years of his life to protecting the freedoms we all hold dear. His time in the military not only honed his discipline and resilience but also instilled in him a profound sense of pride and purpose.  James often shared stories of his service with family and friends, reflecting on the lessons he learned and the camaraderie he cherished during those years.   After completing his service, James returned to his roots, finding peace and fulfillment in farming. He cultivated the land and nurtured life on his farm, raising goats, rabbits, hogs, horses, ducks, and many more animals. His farm became a sanctuary for both him and those who visited. James took pride in caring for his animals and in the simple, honest work that farming demanded. Even as his health began to decline, his heart remained tied to the land, and he continued to share his wisdom and passion with those around him. His farm was more than a livelihood — it reflected his nurturing spirit and his deep connection to nature. Family was at the center of James's life.  James took immense pride in his siblings, nieces, and nephews, often speaking of their accomplishments with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. James was a constant source of strength, a mentor, and a guiding light for his family. His home was a gathering place filled with laughter, love, and memories that will be cherished for generations. James was a man of quiet strength and unwavering faith. He believed in hard work, honesty, and treating others with kindness. James' life was a testament to these values, and he instilled them in everyone he encountered. Friends and neighbors often remarked on his generosity and his willingness to lend a helping hand, whether it was fixing a fence, sharing the fruits of his labor, or offering a listening ear. He found joy in the small things, even from the crow of a rooster at sunrise.  In addition to his beloved parents, James Wells Sr. and Lillie Mae Turner Wells, James was preceded in death by a brother, Willie E. Wells.  After fighting a courageous battle, on January 19, 2025,  James departed this life at Prisma Health Care in Columbia, South Carolina. James leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories to include his devoted siblings, Apostle Carolyn Wells of Sumter, South Carolina, Loris Gallishaw of Sumter, South Carolina, Cathy Wells of Sumter, South Carolina, Linda Wells of Sumter, South Carolina, Emily (Frankie) Scott of Surry, Virginia, and Johnny (Daisy) Wells of Pinewood, South Carolina; one aunt, Willie Mae Cokley of Sumter, South Carolina and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts, remembering the stories he told, the lessons he imparted, and the unconditional love he gave.  Although James is no longer with us in body, his spirit will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him. His life reflected family, and service, and he leaves behind a legacy that will endure through the countless lives he touched. James Wells Jr. was not just a man of many roles — son, brother, uncle, and friend — but a man of great heart, compassion, and strength. His memory will be forever etched in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.