04/14/2026
With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we announce the passing of John Shelby Wells, a beloved New Jersey JCI Senator whose presence touched us all in ways words can scarcely capture. We are reminded that beyond the titles and accolades was a remarkable individual—one who embodied service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others.
Though grief weighs deeply upon us, so too does gratitude—for the laughter shared, the wisdom imparted, and the countless lives forever changed by their kindness and dedication. As we mourn this great loss, we also celebrate a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of leaders to serve with purpose, lead with heart, and live with meaning.
—
John Shelby Wells, formerly of Hopatcong, NJ and later of Metuchen, NJ, passed away on Monday, April 6, 2026. He was 81 years old.
Shelby was born in Nashville, Tennessee, but spent most of his teenage years in Chicago. He later earned his GED while serving in the United States Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division.
He continued his education at Ramapo College, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in American Studies. Professionally, Shelby owned gas stations, was a partner in a sports merchandising company, sold insurance, and worked in a paper factory. He ultimately found his true calling at Drive-Master, where he worked for over 30 years before retiring due to Parkinson’s disease. There, he helped disabled individuals achieve greater mobility through customized van conversions.
Shelby was deeply involved in his community. He served as a Councilman in Hopatcong and dedicated over 20 years to the Hopatcong Little League. He was also heavily involved with the New Jersey Jaycee Organization and served as State President from 1978 to 1979. Outside of his civic contributions, Shelby had a lifelong appreciation for the arts, whether attending local theater, concerts, or live music. He loved sports—especially his Chicago teams—and was a devoted fan of the Rolling Stones.
Shelby is predeceased by his parents, Luman and Joanna (née Young) Wells, and his sister, Melinda (née Wells) Troop.
He is survived by his sons, Bryce Wells and his wife, Tricia Thornton-Wells, of Lincoln, MA, and Colin Wells and his wife, Melissa Impink Wells, of Lyndon, VT; their mother and his former wife, Margaret Hurley Wells, of Lakewood, NJ; and his sister, Luanne Wells Shoemaker of Gainesville, GA.
He is also survived by his fiancée, Debbie Herman of Metuchen, NJ, with whom he shared over 20 years of partnership; his stepson, Andrew Adams, and his wife, Amanda Lyra-Adams, of East Rutherford, NJ.
He is also survived by his seven grandchildren: Greyson, Aubie, Mia, Jackson, Griffin, Aberdeen, and Alisson.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Costello-Runyon Funeral Home. Eulogies and Words of Remembrance will be shared at 2:00 pm, and the Jaycee Creed will be read aloud thereafter. Services will conclude with Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks loved ones to donate to Camp Jaycee (https://www.campjaycee.org/donate) or to a military charity in memory of Shelby.
Visit:
https://www.costello-runyon.com/obituaries/John-Shelby-Wells?obId=48059791&source=tco_email&utm_source=email&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=obituary-share&utm_content=visit-obituary
