November 20, 2024, 80, Goldsboro —
Jimmy Ray Wells, 80, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at UNC Rex Hospital in Raleigh. Jimmy was born in Wayne County to the late Marvin Willard Wells and Wilma Lee Hines Wells on July 10, 1944. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Lou Ann Wells.
Retiring as the Maintenance Director of Wayne County Public Schools, Jimmy dedicated his career to maintaining safe and well-functioning spaces for the betterment of the staff and students.
Actively involved as a member of Pine Forest Church, he served in various positions throughout the years. No matter the need, Jimmy was willing to serve when able.
With over 52 years of service as a member of the Oakland Volunteer Fire Department, Jimmy gave countless hours to serve his community. During that time, he held many positions including Fire Chief. Dedicated to the department, he could often be found at the station doing whatever was needed.
Maintaining close ties with his fellow employees after retirement, Jimmy enjoyed monthly breakfast meetings with the retired school maintenance team, keeping up with today’s news and reminiscing about days gone by.
At home, Jimmy was often happiest sitting atop his tractor and working in the garden. He also could be found tinkering on things in his barn and around the house. He was known to be able to fix almost anything.
Jimmy recognized the greatest blessing he had was family, and he was indeed a blessing to them. He was proud of the role he played as husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Better known as Pa to the family, when he spoke it was with authority, love, and often a belly laugh.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 24, 2024, from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Pine Forest Church in Rosewood. A service celebrating Jimmy’s life will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Tabitha Pate officiating. Interment with fireman honors will be in the Princeton Cemetery.
Jimmy is survived by his wife of 58 years, Betty Carraway Wells; children, Michelle Wells and boyfriend, Ron Sanftleben of Raleigh and Ray Wells and wife, Amanda of Princeton; grandchildren, Austin Wells, Tiffany Pigg and husband, Scotty, and Ra’Chel Alexander and husband, Cory; and a great-granddaughter, Lily Alexander. He is also survived by his brothers, Graham Wells, and Ronnie Wells and wife, Glenda; and his best friend, Larry Grady and wife, Claudia.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Jimmy’s memory to the Oakland Volunteer Fire Department, 617 Oakland Church Road, Princeton, NC 27569.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
