Jeffrey Robert Wells, 69, formerly of Essex Junction, Vt., and Jacksonville, Fla., passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, at Springhill Hospital, near his home in Satsuma, Ala.
Jeff grew up in Essex Junction, Vt., and graduated from Essex Junction High School, Class of 1974. Jeff greatly enjoyed performing with the band and several choruses and singing at many weddings.
Jeff worked in retail the whole of his professional life. His stores included Grand Union, Mr. G’s, Mac’s Market, and many years with Publix Supermarket in Jacksonville, Fla., and Saraland, Ala. He retired from Publix Supermarket in 2022 to spend more time with his family.
Jeff was the son of Robert and Beverley (Burleson) Wells. He married his best friend, Penny Hempstead Wells, on October 6, 2012, in Jacksonville, Fla. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents and his cherished daughter, Lindsay Hempstead. He is survived by his wife, Penny Wells; sons, Jeremy Wells, Brian (Jen) Wells and Ben (Holly) Hempstead; sister, Wendy Bilodeau; nieces, Leslie Langevin and Kelsey Bilodeau; and treasured grandchildren, Ariel Treadway, Hunter Hempstead, Chloe Hempstead, Jason Wells, Gavin Wells, Kingston Hempstead and Regina Hempstead.
The family of Jeff wishes to extend their sincere thanks for the many prayers, well-wishes and condolences that they have received through this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the donor’s choice of charity in Jeff’s honor. The family will have a Celebration of Life for Jeff at a later date.
A lengthier obituary embracing more of Jeff’s life may be found at: dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/saraland-al/jeffrey-wells-12912104.
Jeff will be deeply missed, but the laughter he left behind will never be forgotten.