Went by Edward.
Listed in 1900 census as a Farmer (38), with his wife Fannie (32) and their only son, Ralph (11).
Same location in 1910, showing they were married 22 yrs with 1 child, Ralph (21, IA) who is living with them. He is listed a J. Wells (or J. E.)
Living in Iowa City in 1920, listed as James E. Wells (58, OH) with Fanny B. (52, IA) and Ralph E. (32, IA).
Living in Downey, IA in 1922, when he died.
[Obituary] The Davenport Democrat and Leader - Friday 7 April 1922; Special to the Democrat
Former Resident of West Liberty Dies at Downey - West Liberty, IA, April 6
The many friends here at his old home, were grieved to hear of the sudden death, by heart trouble, of Edward Weels[sic], at his home near Downey, which occurred Saturday night. Mr. Wells wakened his wife about 11 o'clock, and said, "I am very ill, call a doctor, but before the physician could get there he had passed away. The burial, and short services were held here Tuesday. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Fannie Herr Wells's[sic] one son, Ralph, two sisters, Mrs. Dick Davis of Spencer, Iowa, and Mrs. Lottie Irwin of Liberty, and one brother, Lodger Wells of Lavern, Minn. One brother Earnest died of the flu just three weeks ago. The relatives were all here for the funeral, as well as a large number of friends.
[Obituary] unknown paper and date, original from Gladys Wells
James Edward Wells was born in Knox County, Ohio, September 1, 1861, and died at his home at Downey, March 30 1922, aged 60 years, 6 months and 29 days.
He came to Iowa when about nine years of age, with his parents who settled south of Downey. His whole life was spent on the farm with the exception of fifteen months of city life in Iowa City.
He was married to Fannie B. Herr June 25, 1888 (sic), who survives him. For nearly forty-four years they walked life’s pathway together, sharing its joys and sorrows. One child was born to them, Ralph E. Wells.
He leaves to mourn, the widow and son, two sisters, Mrs. Beryle Davis of Spencer and Mrs. Lottie Irwin of West Liberty and one brother, Ledger Wells of Winnebago, Minnesota. The parents and two brothers preceeded him in death.
With the passing of Mr. Wells, his family, his friends and his associates lost one of nature’s noblemen; for he was honest and just in his business, a kind and true husband, and a loving and considerate father. He will be missed by all who knew him. The personality of his kindly nature and character will live on and on through lives yet to be lived. He has given an honest and industrious life, that others as well as he might be happy. He leaves a rich endowment of courage, kindness and love that will grow and enlarge with the passing of time. Should monuments of marble never be erected, the monuments of respect and loving helpfulness to all will never crumble or decay.
The funeral service was held at the home at 12:30 Monday afternoon April 3, by Rev. Dr. Clare D. D. pastor of the Methodist Protestant church, Downey. Interment was made in the family lot at the West Liberty cemetery.