David Franklin Wells, 89, of Panama City, Florida, passed away on Monday December 18th, 2017 at St. Andrews Nursing Facility in Panama City. He was born on April 2, 1928 in Jones County, Georgia to Charles and Clara Wells. He was preceded in death by his wife Catherine Wells, and his son Ralph Wells. He is survived by one child, Julie Wells and one step child Alan Williams; 5 grandchildren, Andy Patton, Brittany Balliette, Ashley Birkenmaier, Rebecca Polsgrove and Daniel Wells; 2 sisters, Neil Hurst and Elaine Wells; 7 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He graduated from High School at age 16 and joined the Navy at age 17. After the Navy, he furthered his education by receiving his undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia, and his Masters and PHD in History from the University of Kentucky. He held the position of full Professor in History at Georgia State University for 30 years before retiring. He moved down to Panama City Florida later in life and met Catherine who became his wife. They were happily married until her passing in January of this year. He was an avid reader and true History buff. He will be missed by his family and his many friends.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 29th at 4 p.m. in the Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Daniel Wells officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 3-4 p.m. prior to the service.