John Raymond Wells, Sr.

John Raymond Wells, Sr., age 73, passed away Thursday, August 25, 2022. Born July 30, 1949, in Avon Park, FL, he was the son of the late Thomas William and Mazie Pearl (Jones) Wells. Mr. Wells owned and operated Wells Pest Control in Lakeland for thirty years. He also worked as a Security Officer for Southeastern University in Lakeland for eight years. Raymond was a Baptist and was a member of the Florida Highway Patrol Auxiliary for fifteen years. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter Heather King Darnell and six siblings. He is survived by a loving family that includes his wife of forty years, Sandra J. Wells of Lakeland, his children: Channa Wells Petrocelli (Ken) of Leesburg, VA, John Raymond Wells, Jr. (Tracy) of Sebring, James Derek Wells of Polk City, Serina Wells McKenzie (Brian) of Polk City and Jarrod Jensen (Tammy) of Oklahoma City, OK. Raymond also leaves behind his siblings: Lucky B. Wells, Joan Wells, Dale Wells, Howard Wells, twelve grandchildren and six great grandchildren. A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, August 28th from 3pm to 5pm at Southeastern University, 1000 Longfellow Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33801. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation in memory of Raymond to The SEU Fund, which helps to support every aspect of university life, including student scholarships, athletics, and campus activities. Donations can be made online at the following website address (https://seu.edu/advancement/make-a-gift/) or by mail (SEU) Office of University Advancement, 1000 Longfellow Blvd., Lakeland FL 33801, noting the SEU Fund on the memo line. For further information, please contact Jada Swanson, Director of donor Relations and Planned Giving, at 863-667-5375.