Mitchell Drew Wells

Mitchell Drew Wells, 67, of Evans, Georgia, passed away on July 30, 2026.

Born on March 23, 1959, Mitchell was the son of Lloyd R. Wells and Virgie Wells, later Virgie Dement following her marriage to Charles Dement, who became a steadfast presence in his life. A man of deep Christian faith, Mitchell lived a life defined by service, leadership, and a pursuit of excellence in all he did.

Mitchell honorably retired from the United States Army as a Sergeant First Class (SFC), E-7, after more than 18 years of faithful active military service. Throughout his Army career, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and a profound sense of duty to his country, earning numerous military commendations in recognition of his dedicated service.

A lifelong learner and educator, Mitchell earned a Master of Business Administration from Brenau University. Following his military retirement, he dedicated 13 years to teaching, investing his knowledge and passion for learning in the lives of his students before continuing his work in cybersecurity, where he helped protect our nation's critical systems. He was recognized for his exceptional analytical mind, technical expertise, and ability to solve highly complex problems.

Mitchell was a lifelong athlete with a passion for competition. Volleyball was especially close to his heart. After many years competing in statewide tournaments, he gave back to the sport as an official for Southeastern Conference (SEC) volleyball, earning the admiration of athletes, coaches, and fellow officials alike.

His love of sports extended well beyond volleyball. He enjoyed playing and coaching co-ed softball, bowling, hunting, and an occasional game of chess. Whether on the court, the field, the lanes, or around a chessboard, he valued sportsmanship, friendly competition, and the friendships those activities brought into his life.

Mitchell is survived by his four children: Michelle Reed and her husband, John Reed, of West Paducah, Kentucky, and their children, Ian, Connor, and Kimiko; his only son, Jacob Wells and his wife, Katharina, of El Paso, Texas; Mary Spivey and her husband, Brent Spivey, of North Augusta, South Carolina, and their children, Taylor, Connor, and Cowen; and Virginia Scruggs and her husband, Adam Scruggs, of Appling, Georgia, and their children, Landon and Chase.

Serving his country was among Mitchell's greatest honors, and being lovingly known as 'Papa Drew' to his eight grandchildren was among his greatest joys. His family's tradition of military service continues through his son, Jacob, who served in the United States Army, and his grandson, Connor, who proudly serves in the United States Air Force.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lloyd R. Wells; his mother, Virgie Dement; his stepfather, Charles Dement; and his brother, Michael Ray Wells.

A private military burial with full honors will be held at Fort Jackson National Cemetery in Columbia, South Carolina, on August 10, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. in recognition of Mitchell's honorable and faithful service to the United States Army.

Mitchell's legacy lives on through the soldiers he led, the students and athletes he encouraged, and the grandchildren who will forever remember him as 'Papa Drew.'

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has offered their love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com