Wilma Ruby Wells

December 13, 1940 – March 28, 2021

Wilma Ruby Wells, 80, of Apex, North Carolina, passed away on March 28, 2021 in her home surrounded by her family.

Wilma was born on December 13, 1940 in Bartlesville, Oklahoma to the late P.W. and Ruby Tate. She was the youngest daughter of eight children. Wilma was a curious child and always excelled in school. She married at the age of 20 and became a dedicated preacher’s wife. She created a loving home, and at age 25, Wilma adopted a newborn girl. Her passion was children. She opened her home to many foster children and exchange students for over 30 years. She created and maintained several educational preschool programs and designed children’s Sunday school curriculums.

Outside of the home, Wilma expertly managed her duties at church as she prospered in her profession as an Executive Administrative Assistant. Throughout her sterling career, she worked for the U.S. Air Force, General Dynamics and ultimately retired from BAE Systems after 40 years in the defense industry. She was respected and loved by all who worked with her.

To all who knew her, Wilma was devoted to her Lord, her family, her church, and her community.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two sisters, Rena Mae King and Norma Lou Robinson.

She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 59 years, Larry L. Wells; her beautiful daughter, Michelle Wells-Colgate, and son-in-law Stan Colgate; grandchildren Brandon Martin, Rachel Martin, Bradley Colgate, and David Colgate.

In lieu of any customary remembrances, please donate memorial contributions in honor of Wilma Wells to the Duke Cancer Institute, DCI Gynecologic Cancers Fund at https://gifts.duke.edu/

Condolences can be shared online at apexfuneral.net