Lestine W. Wells

Lestine Waldrup Wells (April 7, 1947 - June 3, 2023)

Lestine passed away unexpectedly on June 3, 2023, surrounded by the love of family and friends at Baptist Beaches Medical Center. Born in the foothills of North Carolina to Lester and Helen [Chappell] Waldrup she moved to Florida as a young lady and made the Jacksonville Beaches her home for almost 70 years. While attending Fletcher Senior High School she met the love of her life Thomas Gillen Wells, they were married for 55 years and welcomed two children Clinton Ashley Wells and Jessica Ann Wells Farb. Despite losing her own mother at a very young age, she was a wonderful, nurturing mom to her children. She parlayed this natural ability to inspire children into a long career as a teaching assistant at Atlantic Beach Elementary school where she served for over 30 years. While at ABE she worked with students in all grade levels and with differing abilities. Known to many as Mrs. Wells, she often ran into her students as successful adults and had the honor of teaching many of their kids as well. Lestine loved searching for treasures, whether she was out antiquing, thrifting, or dining at local restaurants, she always found the good in every activity. Lestine was an avid quilter, making many, many baby quilts over the years. Lestine also enjoyed many adventures, whether exploring different cities, going on a cruise, or just listening to live music with her husband, Lestine was always ready to go. She was well known for her kindness, gentleness, sense of humor, and enjoyment of life, and would often leave messages for her children where she’d exclaim “You must be out having fun!” 

Lestine is survived by her loving husband Gil, son Clint, daughter Jess, son-in-law Keith, canine companion BoBo, sister Rita, special friends Linda, Suzy, and Janey, as well as many other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother Helen, infant son Thomas, father Lester, and stepmother Sue. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Hearing Aid Project or the Jacksonville Humane Society. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, details forthcoming.

Please join us in a celebration of Lestine's life on Sunday, July 30, 2023 from 1 to 3 pm at the Adele Grage Community Center,  716 Ocean Blvd Atlantic Beach. Casual BLUE attire requested. Light refreshments and desserts will be served.