Delores M. Wells

Delores M. Wells (née Maudie de Lois Bilyeu) died March 25, 2020, after a brief illness in Olympia, Washington. She was born on June 1, 1927, in Russellville, Kentucky, to Benjamin Bilyeu and Lou Edna Keeton. Delores married James Morris Wells on May 26, 1946, in Longview, Washington. The couple also lived in Pontiac, Michigan, before they settled with their three children in Tucson, Arizona, in the early 1970s. The two were married 46 years until Jim’s passing in 1992. Delores is also predeceased by her parents; daughter, Deborah Ann Wells; brothers, John, James, and Frank; and sisters, Ruby, Mary Jo, and Marie. Delores is survived by her son, Gary Wells (Wilma) of Richland, Washington; daughter, Jody Ozmun-Wells (Marianne) of Olympia, Washington; and long-time friend, James Garcia of Tucson, Arizona. She is also survived by grandchildren, Greg of Texas; Chad (Eddie) of Renton, Washington; Kim of Boise, Idaho; Michael (Jason) of Richland, Washington; Cherie Niemeyer (Dave) of Richland; and Allie Ozmun-Wells of Olympia; as well as 12 great-grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren, and many extended family and friends. She worked at Broadway Southwest in Tucson from July 31, 1974, until after the store became Macy’s in 1996. Her career included sales, buying for the store, and training new employees. She was a favorite men’s fragrance saleswoman. Delores was a talented singer and enjoyed casinos and yard sales. In October 2018, Delores joined her daughter Jody’s family in Olympia. In June 2019, she relocated to memory care in Yelm, Washington. Her greatest joys were visits and holidays with her children, grandchildren, and friends. Celebrations of life will take place in Washington and Arizona when travel restrictions are lifted. Inquiries may be directed to [email protected] Delores will be deeply missed and forever loved. Please leave condolences or share memories and photos on the Tribute Wall to the left.