of Bryant, AR
August 5, 1952 - January 17, 2026
Leslie Paul Wells, age 73, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away unexpectedly following complications from cancer on January 17, 2026.
Paul was born on August 5, 1952, in Peru, Indiana, to J.C. Wells and Helen Wells (Abney). He was their only son. He proudly served in the Army National Guard and later worked in construction, where an injury disabled him at an early age.
Known to everyone as Paul, and lovingly called PaPa by his grandchildren, he was always making jokes and was known as the ''fix-it guy'' in the family. Paul was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. Being a PaPa was his greatest joy.
Paul married the love of his life, Aneida Wells, on December 24, 1971. Together they raised their children, Lyjeana Wells Swope and Chad Wells.
He was preceded in death by his father J.C. Wells, his wife Aneida Wells, and his daughter Tonya Wells, who passed in infancy.
Paul is survived by his mother, Helen Wells; his sisters, Marilyn Coursey and Ina McCullum; his daughter Lyjeana (Leo) Swope and grandchildren Jacklyn Winifred and Joseph Winfrey; and his son Chad Wells (Coleen Cowart) and grandchildren Grace Wells, Logan Wells, Delilah Wells, Chloe Cowart, Zoe Cowart and Tanner Wilson.
Paul enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially sharing those moments with his son and grandson Logan.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Paul's honor.
Paul will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.