James R. Wells

August 15, 2009

TAUNTON – James R. Wells, 75, died Saturday, August 15, 2009, in his home following a period of failing health. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, the son of the late Russell and Jessie (De Young) Wells, he was the husband of Nancy (Bushee) Wells, with whom he shared fifty-four years of marriage.

A Taunton resident for over sixty-four years, after high school he attended the Coyne Electronic School. He was the owner of Cohannet TV and the Corner Fruit Store, originally located on the corner of Cohannet and High Streets, before forced to move due to an urban renewal project in that area. He and his wife moved their business to Whittenton Street, where they opened the Whittenton Laudromant next door to Cohannet TV.

Jim was a commissioner for City of Taunton’s Cable Commission, served as one of its first board members and was the longest serving board member. He was a strong supporter of the Taunton Boys Club. He introduced and promoted satellite systems in the City of Taunton and was a well known and respected businessman in the city. He was an avid CBer, known for his handle as “Jungle Jim.” He was a member of Memorial United Methodist Church in Taunton.

Besides his wife, Nancy, he is survived by a daughter, Karen Wells, and a son, Kevin Wells, both of Taunton. Jim was the grandfather of Aubrey Wells of Assonet and James Wells of Taunton, and the brother of the late Doris Athern and uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Information

A funeral service will be held in the Memorial United Methodist Church, 176 Somerset Ave. Taunton, Wednesday, August 19, 2009, at 11:00AM. Visiting hours will be held in THE CRAPO-HATHAWAY FUNERAL HOME, 350 Somerset Ave. (Route 138 South), Taunton, Wednesday morning from 9:00 to 10:30AM, prior to the service. Interment will be Oakland Cemetery. To LIGHT A CANDLE, SIGN THE MEMORIAL REGISTER, consult THE GRIEF LIBRARY, or obtain FACILITY DIRECTIONS, please log on to www.hathawayfunerals.com., or telephone 508/822-3318.

Donations Information

Contributions in his memory may be made to THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION, Massachusetts Office, 330 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02110; and/or HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE, 502 Bedford St., Fall River, MA 02720.