Sherman Darnell Wells

OBITUARY

Sherman Darnell Wells, 62, of Ivor, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Born October 5, 1963, in Ivor, VA, Sherman lived a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and service to others.

Sherman found and established a close relationship with God at a young age, and his faith guided him throughout his life. He was the kind of man who would do anything for anyone. For decades, he formed long-term relationships by offering discounted mechanic services to family, friends, and neighbors — never meeting a stranger and always willing to lend a hand. A mechanic for all of his life, Sherman took pride in honest work and helping others keep moving.

His work ethic was evident in every season of his life. He worked as a farmer for over 15 years, with Surry Rental for over 10 years, and with United Rentals for more than 25 years. Whether in the fields, in the shop, or on the job site, Sherman gave his best. He was big on making sure his family was well-mannered and encouraged each of them to do something great in life while establishing families of their own. His greatest joys were simple: spending time with family and friends while hunting, camping, fishing, gardening, and taking road trips. If there was laughter, a good story, and loved ones around, Sherman was at home.

Sherman was preceded in death by his mother, Portia Novelle Wells; his father, Henry Wells Jr.; his brother, Henry Wells Ill; his mother-in-law, Viola Woodson; his father-inlaw, Jack Artis; brothers-in-law, Frank Elder and Willie Artis; and sister-in-law, Nioka Elder. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 51 years together, Sheila Wells, children; Shawnaque Wells-Ford (Robert), Marcus Wells (Eric), Traven Wells (Jessica), Raven Wells, Domnick Davis(Neajah Ellis) and bonus daughter, Crystal Blount; grandchildren, Jacob Ford, Joshua Ford, Traven Wells Jr., and Ny'omi Davis; his sister, Sharon "Gail" Wells; his brother, Lawrence Delk (Zina); brothers-in-law, Roy-Lee Artis, Tommie Elder, William Elder, and Earl Lee Artis; brothers-in-law, Roy-Lee Artis,; sisters-in-law, Velma Elder-Atkins, Eva "Shay" Jones and Sandra Artis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many friends whose lives he touched.

On Friday, May 29, 2026 viewing will take place from 3-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11am on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church. Interment will follow the service in the church cemetery. Please keep the Wells family in your prayers.