Obituaries

John Lee Wells

Photo of John Lee Wells
John Lee Wells, age 72, went to Heaven on March 19, 2018, at Mercy Hospital in Rogers, surrounded by family and friends. John was born on August 30, 1945, in Salinas, Calif. to Alex and Dorothy Wells, who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death, three brothers, Don, Louis, and Rex Wells; and one sister, Emma Yates. John graduated from Bentonville High School in 1963. He enjoyed outdoor activities, sports, and excelled in Tiger football his senior year, earning All-State honors as a running back. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served in Thailand during the Vietnam War. In 1977, John married Vicki Wilks, and he was a loving husband to her for 40 years until his passing. He played youth baseball, and enjoyed, rooted for, and supported area teams, Hobbs State Park, and the Razorbacks. He was friends with notable area business and professional leaders, celebrities, athletes, and musicians, who liked his fried catfish meals and hospitality. John was an ambassador of good will, good food, and great smiles! In 1988 he became the founding owner (with his family's support) of Catfish John's restaurant on Highway 102 in Rogers. His love for people was expressed daily in handshakes and personal table visits with customers. "How are you folks doing today?" he usually asked. John's keen sense of humor would lighten the hearts of all who came in. John is survived by his wife, Vicki; sons, Mike, Chad, and John David (Ellisa); sisters, Jane Knox (Al), Bobbie Ann Davis (Glen); nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren who John loved very much; and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of John's life will be held at his home at 1 p.m. on April 7. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Cooper Max Foundation, 2520 CR 531, Burleson, Texas, 76028; and The Miller McNeil Woodruff Foundation, 6518 Timber Ridge Dr, Rogers, Ark., 72758.

Published April 5, 2018

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