In Memoriam: William "Bill" D. Wells, Jr.

William “Bill” D. Wells Jr., a respected nurseryman, landscape designer, and dedicated community leader, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, October 26, at the age of 92.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Katharine “Kay” (Mackenzie) Wells, by his sisters Barbara Sykas (Wells) and Priscilla VanDerlyn Wells Ridout Lane Petty and his cherished grandchildren, Evan William Hawes and Rory Mackenzie Wholey Wells.

A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served during the Korean War, Bill used the G.I. Bill to pursue his passion for horticulture. He graduated from the State University of New York at Farmingdale with a degree in Ornamental Horticulture and Landscape Design, earning Dean’s List honors and serving as Student Body President — all while working and raising a young family.

Bill's professional career was defined by entrepreneurship and expertise. He honed his skills at Styer's Nursery in Concordville, PA, rising to Vice President/Manager before founding his own highly successful business, W. D. Wells & Associates, Inc., in 1974. The landscape design/build firm and its companion, Water Crest Farms Nursery, became a family enterprise in West Grove, PA. In 1991 Bill joined Carlton Plants of McMinville, OR as a regional sales representative serving the Mid-Atlantic for many years.

His influence extended far beyond his own company. Bill was a towering figure in the horticultural world, serving as National President of the American Conifer Society (1987-88) and holding numerous leadership roles with the Pennsylvania Landscape and Nursery Association (PLNA), including Chairman and a place in their Hall of Fame (2006). Bill served for many years as a board member, including being president, of the Horticultural Research Institute, which is affiliated with the American Nursery & Landscape Association (ANLA). He was a trusted advisor, serving on the horticultural advisory boards for Longwood Gardens, Penn College, and Williamson Trade School. For many years, he shared his knowledge as the host of the “Better Gardening” radio program and as a teacher at several institutions.

Bill’s commitment to service was equally profound. He was a dedicated Rotarian for over 50 years, serving as President of both the Kennett Square and West Grove clubs and being named a Paul Harris Fellow. His civic contributions were extensive, including roles as a Pocopson Township Supervisor, Chairman of the West Chester Regional Planning Commission, and Chairman of the Penn Township Planning Commission. A lifelong member of the Boy Scouts of America, he was one of 17 scouts nationwide to report to President Harry S. Truman in 1951 and later served as a Scout Master.

Bill was a family man as much as a nursery man. He loved spending time sailing, traveling, and collecting treasures along his travels. When at home, he most enjoyed mowing the nursery (and getting stuck in tree holes a few too many times chasing that last spot of grass), spending time with his grandchildren, and playing a hand of gin rummy with Kay.
He is survived by his children: Katharine E. Hawes (Todd), William H. Wells (Rosalie), Thomas M. Wells (Jean), and David V. Wells (Heather Wholey); his beloved grandchildren: Katharine Hart (Hawes); Alejandro Wells, Nicole Wells, and Julia Ryan (Wells); Carolyn Wells and Alison Hartt (Wells); and Cassidy Wells; and his great-grandchildren: Kaden (son of Evan) and Kitt (daughter of Katharine); Jack and Tilly (children of Alex); Lili (daughter of Nicole); Hazel and Phoebe (daughters of Julia); and Joseph and Samuel (sons of Alison).He also leaves behind countless friends, colleagues, and mentees whose lives he touched.

A celebration of Bill's life TBA. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to ASPCA or Canine Partners for Life.