Kenneth Wayne Wells

Kenneth Wayne Wells, lovingly known as “Kenny,” passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 55. Though his passing leaves an ache that words can never fully heal, his life was one marked by loyalty, laughter, strength, and an unwavering love for his family, friends, and country. Kenny was born on August 6, 1970, in Las Vegas, Nevada, to Carl Thomas Wells Sr. and Joanne McClary Wells. He spent much of his life rooted in Richmond, Virginia, where he graduated from Highland Springs High School. Immediately after graduation, Kenny answered the call to serve and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, beginning a proud military career that would span from 1989 to 2003. During his years in the Marines, Gunnery Sergeant Kenneth Wells served his country with honor, dedication, and courage. He worked as an Aviation Operations Specialist and later as a Recruiter, helping guide and mentor future Marines with the same pride he carried throughout his service. His military accomplishments reflected the kind of man he was — disciplined, dependable, and deeply committed to those around him. Among the many honors he earned were the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with two stars, Good Conduct Medal with three stars, National Defense Service Medal with one star, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal with two stars, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait), Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia), Navy Unit Commendation with two stars, Meritorious Unit Commendation with two stars, Combat Action Ribbon, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with one star, Marine Corps Recruiting Ribbon, Navy Arctic Service Ribbon, and numerous certificates of commendation, meritorious masts, and letters of appreciation. He was also recognized with both Rifle Expert and Pistol Sharpshooter badges. These medals and commendations tell the story of a Marine who served with distinction and honor. Of all the roles Kenny held in life, being a father was one he cherished most. His boys were the center of his world, and there was nothing he loved more than being surrounded by them. He was the kind of father who showed up — whether it was with advice, a helping hand, and of course a laugh when it was needed most.

He loved fiercely, protected endlessly, and took pride in each of his sons. The bond he shared with them was built on love, loyalty, and countless memories that will live on forever. Kenny loved fishing, boating, baseball, and riding motorcycles, but nothing brought him more happiness than time spent with his wife, Paige. She was not only the love of his life, but his very best friend. Their marriage was filled with laughter, companionship, and a deep devotion that everyone around them could see. No matter where life took them, Kenny was happiest when they were together. Kenny is survived by his loving wife, Marian Paige Wells; his sons, Cameron Tyler Waters and wife Michelle Waters, Kendall Tyler Wells, Jonathan Tyler Wells, Jacob Anthony Wells, Colton James Richardson, and Anthony Parrish Richardson; his mother, Joanne McClary Wells; his brother, Carl Thomas “Tom” Wells Jr. and wife Tammy Wells; and his lifelong best friend, Timothy Tinnel. He was preceded in death by his father, Carl Thomas Wells Sr. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Willis, Texas. A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., also at the funeral home, followed by a procession to Houston National Cemetery, where Kenny will receive full military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Kenny’s memory to organizations close to his heart: Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) or the Semper Fi & America’s Fund.