Merle R. Wells

Merle R. Wells Sr, 79, of rural Lawrenceville, IL passed away at his residence Saturday April 9, 2016. He was born September 7, 1936 in Lawrence County, IL the son of Otto Benjamin Wells and Nellie (Jones) Leach and Step-father Bernice "Tug" Leach. On June 18, 1954 he married Betty Lou Jerrell. She survives. Merle worked as an auto mechanic. He retired from Marathon Oil Company after 30 years of service. He also drove a school bus for Unit 20 for a number of years. He was a member of the Wesleyan Christian Church on 4th Street where he held many positions such as Sunday School Superintendent and Secretary. He enjoyed his church and his family. Along with his wife, he is survived by four sons: Merle Wells Jr and his wife Cathy of Ft. Branch, IN, Bruce Wells and his wife Janet of Lawrenceville, IL, Richard Wells and his wife Gina of Centerville, OH, Danny Wells and his wife Dawn of Yuba City, CA, one daughter: Sharon Jones and her husband Jerry of Vincennes, IN, 14 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Several nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers: Kelly Wells, Harold Wells, Robert Wells, and two sisters; Doris Lemeron and Vera Cokley. The funeral will be Wednesday at 11:00 am at the Wesleyan Christian Church on 4th Street. Burial will follow at the May Chapel Cemetery. Visitation is Tuesday from 5:00 until 8:00pm at the Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be given to the 4th Street Wesleyan Christian Church.