Mary O. Wells

Mary Odessa Wells, age 99, passed away at her home on Friday, October 23, 2020, surrounded by her loving family. Mary was born the daughter of General and Pearl (Boyd) Rumley on May 16, 1921 in Buxton, Iowa. She was the youngest of ten children. She married Robert Wells on October 1, 1949 and to this union two children were born, Steven and Linda. Mary was involved in many clubs, most notably a member of the Buxton Club and a Logan Head Start Program volunteer. She had many varied hobbies including ceramics, crocheting, knitting, and crafting. Mary loved all sports. She especially enjoyed watching the Williams sisters play tennis, she was a women’s college basketball fan, and also enjoyed watching softball.

Above all, the most treasured thing for Mary was time spent with family and friends. She was proud of the fact that she lived independently until she was 96 years old. She was known affectionately as Aunt Mary or Aunt Sally to those who loved her. Mary was “Mom” to all the kids and grandkids.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving children, Steven Wells (Regina Young) and Linda (Fred) McCuller, both of Des Moines; grandchildren, Leslie Lewis, Brandi (Richie) Zawistowski, Sara Wells, and Keri Wells; eight great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other extended family and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, General and Pearl Rumley; husband, Robert Wells; and her siblings, Julia, Leona, Lillian, Raymond, Carrol, Harvey, Joseph, Marguerite, and Pearlie.

Mary’s funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 30, 2020 at Greater Love Church of God in Christ, 1440 DeWolf Street, Des Moines, IA 50316. Mary will be laid to rest at Glendale Cemetery following the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to UnityPoint Hospice.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

Print