Info/Obituary on James "Jim" Ray Wells
Deceased 14 December 2025
Comments from Reggie Slater: Jim was an Armament Specialist who came from B Troop. He also was a Slick Door Gunner as shown in his MP1 photo on his MyPage (from Carl Burn's Book page 95). On Sunday he often sang at Church. He had an incredible voice.
He was friends with MAJ Jerry Collamore Scout Pilot. They took an OH-23 and went to Saigon to a Billy Graham Event.
Obituary: Age 82, of Garden City, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 14, 2025. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on James’ tribute wall at detroitcremationsociety.com.
James was born on July 8, 1943, in Russellville, Kentucky, the beloved son of Hickman and Dorothy (Nealy) Wells. He also served in the United States Army 3rd Squadron 4th Cavalry 25th Division and was a Vietnam War Veteran. His life was centered around faith, music, fine food, travel, friendships, and family. James followed his heart and lived life on his own terms, doing precisely what brought him joy. For more than sixty years, his remarkable voice and musical talent reached people across the world. He sang with the Detroit Concert Choir and the Michigan Opera Theater, knew seemingly every hymn ever written, directed countless choirs, and praised the Lord through his music. His faith and love for sacred music were evident in everything he did. James had a rare gift for connecting with people. He could strike up a friendship with anyone, even the deli clerk at Kroger and people often remarked that they could talk with him for hours. He listened without judgment, offered comfort without pretense, and made others feel truly seen and valued.
He loved his family deeply and touched countless lives in ways he may never have fully realized. His kindness, warmth, and music will be remembered always.
Left to cherish his memory are his loved ones, including Jeffrey Wells, Janine Wells, Joan Norris, and many, many dear friends. James was preceded in death by his parents, Hickman and Dorothy Wells