Danny "Dan" Wells

Danny “Dan” Wells, lovingly known to many as Slydawg, Papa, and Pop Pop, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at the age of 70. Though his time here feels far too short, Dan’s life was a rich story of devotion — to his family, his work, his country, and his beloved Georgia Bulldogs.

Born on August 6, 1955, in Winder, Georgia, to Lonnie Wells and Rosa Howington, Dan grew up learning the value of hard work from an early age. At just 13 years old, he began helping his father on Pepsi routes — work that set the tone for the rest of his life. After graduating high school, he went on to serve proudly in the United States Army, Florida National Guard, where he held the rank of E-4 and worked as a Military Police officer, Administrative Specialist, and Supply Specialist. He served a total of seven years with honor and was always proud of his time in uniform.

After his military service, Dan settled into a lifelong career as a truck driver — a profession that came naturally to him and one he carried out with pride. From vending for companies like Merita Bread, Pepsi, Coca-Cola, and Frito Lay, to long hauls in 18-wheelers; Dan built a reputation as a man who could be counted on. Later in life, he retired after working for Billy Heroman’s as a delivery driver, though his daughters will always remember the days when he came home with treats and “goodies” he had traded with other vendors. Dan’s work ethic was unmatched — he believed in providing for his family and doing the job right, every time.

Outside of work, Dan lived for sports — especially anything connected to his home state of Georgia. A die-hard Georgia Bulldogs fan, he proudly cheered on his Dawgs no matter the season. He also loved the Atlanta Braves, the Atlanta Falcons, and could always be found tuned into NASCAR, especially on Sundays when he would wake up early to catch the races. Sports were more than entertainment for him; they were passion, tradition, and a way of staying connected to his roots.

But above all else, Dan was a family man. He married the love of his life and best friend, Patricia “Patty” Wells (née Bailey), who was his confidant and partner in all things. Dan is also survived by his three beautiful daughters, Christina Wells, Ashley Wells, and Michelle Castro (née Wells); to include his son-in-law of 13 years, Michael Castro. Dan was the epitome of a “girl dad” — it was all he ever wished for, and he cherished his role more than anything else in the world. He was also “Pop Pop or Papa” to six grandchildren; Alexander “Xander” (26), Emilee (20), Michael (13), Makayla (11), Mariana (9), and Maya (7), who brought him joy, laughter, and endless pride.

Dan shared a lifelong bond with his brothers, Charles Steven “Steve” Wells (Wife, Ruth Wells), and Richard Wells (Wife, Buffy Baldwin), while carrying in his heart the memory of his brother David Wells, who passed before him. At home, his loyal cats Ginger and Zoro kept him company and gave him comfort.

Dan’s family will remember him as hardworking, loyal, funny, and full of heart. He loved deeply and without condition, and he left a legacy of strength and devotion that will live on through those who were lucky enough to know him.

In keeping with his wishes, services will be private, shared only with family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to both the Eden Reforestation Projects (Eden: People + Planet) and Senior Cat Action Network, as Dan looked forward to his evenings on the porches watching and looking at his beautiful plants, and spending time with his two babies, Ginger and Zoro.