Mother, father of Nolan Wells honor his memory at Ocean Springs funeral
OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WXXV) — Two weeks after Nolan Wells’ death, funeral services were held at an Ocean Springs church, bringing family, friends, and the community together to remember his life and impact.
Not a seat was empty at Center Pointe Church as family, friends, and teammates gathered to honor the life of 18-year-old Wells, who was found dead near Horn Island after he was last seen on the 4th of July.
In a moving message, Wells’ mother and father – Christine and Elmore Wonsley– delivered sentiments in memory of their son.
“We will miss everything about him. From his quiet nature, to the corny jokes, his gentle smile, the way he made everyone around him feel comfortable, loved and at ease. Your absence has left an emptiness that can never truly be filled. A piece of our hearts will always be missing,” said Christine Wonsley.
“You were not just making a name for yourself on the football field, the basketball court, and the baseball diamond, but you were also laying the groundwork for your little brother, Elmore. I nicknamed you ‘Mr. Cool Hands’ because it seemed like you were catching a touchdown every game,” said Elmore Wonsley. “You wanted to be the best, so I poured all my knowledge into you. Nolan meant a lot to a lot of people, and today just shows us how much he meant to the community, to the country, and to the world.”
Christine also encouraged the crowd to live like Nolan.
“In a world that can often be dark, be like Nolan. Be the light that brightens the lives around you. Be the warmth for those that may be feeling the coldness of the world. Love deeply, protect fiercely, and welcome others with kindness. Remain faithful knowing that God is always with you,” said Christine. “Lastly, I ask that each of you keep Nolan’s memory alive. Hold him close in your hearts, share his stories and never stop saying his name.”
Civil Rights Attorney Ben Crump spoke at the service, focusing his attention on the ongoing investigation into Nolan’s death, and leading the crowd in a chant for justice.
“Justice for Nolan Wells!” yelled Crump.
Rev. Al Sharpton officiated the service. He noted that people of every color, race, and age filled the room in tribute to the Ocean Springs native.
“One of the things that I’m glad to see is that there are people of all races at this funeral, and there are people of all ages,” said Sharpton. “All whites are not racist and all blacks are not angry. Somewhere in the middle we’ve got to meet and find what is just and fair.”
Christine and Elmore expressed their gratitude to those who gathered to honor their son’s life before sharing a heartfelt embrace as Nolan’s casket was carried from the church.
The investigation into Nolan Wells’ death remains active. Attorney Ben Crump and Rev. Al Sharpton reiterated their call for justice, saying they will continue pushing for answers.
