HUBERT  -  Billy Ray Wells, Sr, 81, of Hubert, passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at Carteret Healthcare.  A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Jones Funeral Home, Swansboro Chapel, with pastors Steve Evans and Woody Witt officiating.

Mr. Wells was born December 9, 1944 in Onslow County to the late Willie Gaston and Nellie Bell Toomer Wells.  He was a good ole boy who loved to fish, coach soccer, and being on the farm. His greatest enjoyment was being surrounded by his family and friends. He spent over thirty years at Rhem Installation.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Dalton Patrick Wells and Rita Mae Wells; and his daughter-in-law, Catherine Wells.

Survivors include his son, Billy Ray Wells, Jr. of Cape Carteret; life partner, Edna Lee of the home; two children he raised, Tabitha Traitor and Dwayne Berry both of Hubert; grandchildren, Paula Newbern and her husband Joe of Onslow County; great grandchildren, Dustin Ray, Dillion Randle, Catherine Johnson; five great-great-grandchildren; brother, Dewey Wells of Stella; and niece, Melissa and nephew Jonathan.

The family will receive friends Saturday morning, prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 AM at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.