David Vard Wells, age 70, passed away on May 4, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona. He was born on July 13, 1955, in Price, Utah to Nathanial "Vard" Wells and Willadeen "Billie" Miller Wells.

David lived a life defined by service, devotion, and love of the Lord. He had a gift for seeing what something could become and then working patiently until it was better, stronger, or more beautiful. Every home he lived in carried his touch- not only through the projects he built and improved, but through the warmth and welcome he created for family and friends. He enjoyed building, repairing, and designing, but he was most happy when serving and helping other people.

More than anything, David loved his family. He was deeply devoted to his wife, Edna, and together they built a marriage of 51 years centered on faith, hard work, laughter, and unwavering commitment. He was a steady and loving father, and grandfather whose influence will continue through the lives of his children and grandchildren.

David formed lasting friendships wherever he went. He had a way of making people feel valued, capable, and included. He especially loved adventure and the outdoors, creating memories through deer hunting trips, cliff rappelling, white water rafting, hiking, and countless experiences shared with family and friends.

His faith in Jesus Christ guided every part of his life. He served faithfully in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in many callings, including bishop twice, member of a stake presidency, counselor in a mission presidency, and ward mission leader. Though he never served a full-time mission in the traditional sense, it remained one of the desires of his heart, and those who knew him recognized that he spent his entire life doing missionary work through his example, teaching, service, and love for others.

David also loved Scouting and devoted many years to mentoring young men and serving in Wood Badge leadership. He was honored with the Silver Beaver Award in recognition of his distinguished service.

For the past 13 years, David worked as a project manager for the Church, a role that suited both his talents and his desire to serve.

Even in later years, when physical limitations slowed him, his spirit never weakened. He remained thoughtful, engaged, optimistic, and devoted to the people and principles he loved most.

David was preceded in death by his father, Vard Wells, and his granddaughter, Violet Wells.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Edna Wells; his children, Andrea (Don) Francis, JaNae (Scott) Freedland, Jon (Kim) Wells, Maria (Dan) Estock, Rachel (Miles) Ertel, and Jeremy (Sarah) Wells; 31 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.

His family and friends will remember him as a man who improved everything around him- homes, communities, friendships, and lives- and whose legacy of faith, service, and love will continue for generations.

A funeral service will be held at
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
618 South Signal Butte Rd
Mesa, AZ 85207
Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 2pm with a viewing beginning at 1pm.