Richard Wells Jr Lexington, KY Obituary: It is with profound sorrow and heartfelt remembrance that we share the passing of Richard “Richie” Wells Jr., a beloved athletic trainer, mentor, and cherished friend, who passed away in 2025. A dedicated member of the athletic community in Lexington, Kentucky, and a proud native of the Bronx, New York, Richie’s sudden passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A man of integrity, strength, and compassion, Richie made a lasting impact on countless lives—on and off the field—and his legacy will live on in every student-athlete, colleague, and friend whose life he touched. Richie Wells was much more than an athletic trainer; he was a cornerstone of every team he worked with. For years, Richie served as the trainer for Kentucky Baseball and other athletic programs, where his presence became synonymous with trust, loyalty, and quiet strength.
He was the one constant behind the scenes—the one taping ankles, offering advice, cracking a smile at just the right time, and reminding athletes that they were more than just players—they were people, and they mattered. Born and raised in the vibrant borough of the Bronx, Richie carried his New York grit with pride. That unmistakable Bronx spirit—equal parts toughness and heart—was something he never lost.
He brought it with him wherever he went, and it became part of what made him so beloved. Whether he was in the dugout during a tense moment in a game or on the training table helping an athlete through rehab, Richie’s unwavering calm and confidence were magnetic. You knew, without a doubt, that he had your back.
Richie’s journey in sports medicine was driven by a passion to help others succeed—not just physically, but in life. He believed in the power of mentorship, and he lived that belief every day. Richie had a sixth sense for when someone needed a pep talk, a moment of quiet, or a good laugh. He knew when to push and when to listen. He knew how to connect. Athletes trusted him with their injuries, but more importantly, they trusted him with their fears, their doubts, their dreams.
To his colleagues and fellow coaches, Richie was the glue that held things together. His work ethic was unmatched, and his loyalty ran deep. He never sought recognition or applause—he simply showed up, day after day, game after game, giving everything he had to the people around him. He was the first one there in the morning and often the last one to leave. And he did it all without complaint—because that was Richie. Steady. Humble. Dependable.
There are countless stories from those who knew Richie best—stories that show the depth of his character and the reach of his kindness. Former players speak of the late-night talks, the pre-game rituals, and the unwavering support that carried them through their toughest seasons. Fellow trainers and coaches recall how Richie always made time to help, to teach, to share a laugh even in the most high-pressure moments. Friends talk about how he never forgot a birthday, how he called just to check in, and how he never let distance keep him from showing up for the people he loved.
Richie Wells was also a man of deep loyalty to his roots. He loved his city—its pulse, its people, its pride. The Bronx wasn’t just where he was from; it was part of who he was. And while Lexington became home in many ways, the Bronx never left his heart. He brought that toughness and that heart to every field, court, and training room he stepped into. It defined his work ethic, his resilience, and the fire with which he defended those he loved.
Off the field, Richie was the kind of friend you only find once in a lifetime. He was the one you called when life got hard, when you needed someone to shoot straight with you, or when you just needed someone to listen. His friendships were deep and loyal, and once you were in Richie’s circle, you were there for life. He gave his people his time, his energy, and his full self—without ever asking for anything in return.
As we mourn the loss of such a remarkable man, it is impossible not to feel the enormity of his absence. His laugh, his stories, his calming presence—they are deeply missed. But even in our grief, we are comforted by the immense legacy Richie leaves behind. He gave so much of himself to others, and in doing so, he built something that can never be taken away. He taught us how to lead with humility, how to serve with love, and how to live a life that matters.
To Richie’s family—our deepest, most heartfelt condolences. We know how proud he was of his roots and how deeply he loved his family. We share your sorrow and honor your loss with you. Thank you for sharing Richie with us. He became a brother, a mentor, and a hero to so many, and we are forever grateful.
Plans for Richie’s memorial and celebration of life will be announced in the coming days, and we know that people will come from near and far to honor the man who gave so much to so many. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a scholarship fund or athletic training foundation established in Richie’s name—something that will continue his mission of helping young athletes thrive.
In remembering Richie, let us not only mourn his loss but celebrate his life. Let us live a little more like he did—showing up, staying loyal, working hard, and loving deeply. Let us keep his memory alive not just in words, but in action. Rest easy, Richie. You were the backbone of so many teams, the calm in so many storms, and the heart of so many lives.
Your work is done here, but your legacy lives on in every taped ankle, every supported shoulder, every coach’s strategy, and every athlete’s triumph. We love you. We miss you. And we will never forget you. Rest in Power, Coach Wells. Bronx Strong. Forever Blue.
