Wells Curry Bratton
Feb 24th, 1997 - Apr 18th, 2020- Birth Date: Feb 24, 1997
- Death Date: Apr 18, 2020
- Location: St. Mark's Episcopal Church
- Save: Print this Obituary
Biography:
Wells Curry Bratton, 23, left this earth to be with the angels on April 18, 2020 after a hard-fought battle with addiction. Like many of his friends and contemporaries, the opioid epidemic was a fight too powerful for him to overcome and only God could set him free and heal him. He is survived by his mother Alison Offutt Hayes, his father Dwight Curry Bratton, his beloved sister Blissett Grace Bratton, his stepfather Mark “the Bossman” Hayes, and step brothers Colin and Franz Hayes.
He is also survived by his maternal grandparents Barbara Byrne Lewis and Paul Offutt (Kay), his paternal grandparents Glena and Wade Bratton, and step paternal grandmother Marilyn Hayes. He also leaves behind aunts and uncles Byrne Offutt (Dyan), Page Huddles (Kirk), Lea O’Hara, Heather Offutt and his five cousins, Ryan O’Hara, Chase Huddles, Lila Huddles, Ryder Offutt, and Heather Offutt.
Wells, aka Freshy/Wellsman/Bean, was a true outdoorsman who loved to duck hunt, fish and play golf. In fact, the last golf game he played was his best score ever! He loved video games and was an ace Fortnite player. Wells was a proud graduate of Catholic High School for Boys, Class of 2015, and a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. He also cheered on the North Carolina Tar Heels and New Orleans Saints any chance he could! Wells will be missed by his many friends, with special mention of his cherished pal Charlsi Konecny and his pup Zorro.
Wells’ family will remember him as a sweet, funny, history buff, and gentle soul with a heart bigger than life itself. He leaves behind many loved memories such as the dance of the day, “the casual look off” for photographs, and a variety of sophomoric hijinks. He was an Olympic champion sleeper and gave the best bear hugs. He never met a white shirt he didn’t immediately stain. At his core, he was one of the finest men you could ever hope to know. To say he was fun to be around would be the ultimate in understatements. As Wells often said when asked if he needed anything, “Nah, I’m good” and yes, he is good as he now has his angel wings.
Due to the restrictions and COVID-19 pandemic, there will be a private funeral service for his family. A celebration of Wells’ life will be held at a later date. The family requests that any memorials be made to the substance abuse center of your choice or to the Oasis Renewal Center, 14913 Cooper Orbit Rd., Little Rock, Arkansas 72223.
Arrangements made by Ruebel Funeral Home
Condolences(55)
Grant McPherson
#55
Oct 31st, 2020 10:06 am
Wells was one of a kind. Only had the pleasure of knowing Wells for a few short years, but he was the type of guy that made everyone feel like they had known him for much longer. Wells always had a smile on his face and knew how to brighten the mood. Man I miss you Freshy! My deepest condolences are with the Family.
Jamee Beard
#54
Sep 3rd, 2020 10:09 am
I can't begin to imagine what you and your family are going through. I just found out and I do apologize for the late response. Mr. Mark and Mrs. Allison I pray for you all and I know God is with you and your family. My condolences. I will be keeping you all in my prayers.
Angie Weidman Taylor
#53
Apr 29th, 2020 2:12 pm
There are no words to ease your pain! Continuous prayers for you guys. I am glad to have been around Wells recently! I am here always!
Joan & Allen Davis
#52
Apr 29th, 2020 6:40 am
We were so, so sorry to hear the sad news about Wells. He was a great friend to Michael, and always such a sweet guy. We cannot imagine we hat y'all must be going thru, and only wish there was something to say or do that might help ease your pain We are just praying for God to give you all peace and strength until the good memories outweigh your grief. Know that you raised a fine young man. He was sweet,thoughtful, and caring, and had a happy spirit. His candle burned out too soon, but it was a bright one.
Richard Thompson
#51
Apr 28th, 2020 5:22 am
Your grief is truly felt having just lost our beautiful and talented daughter, Allie (29) in January due to alcohol addiction caused by anxiety. Wells sounds like a fine young man.
We lose too many of our children and friends to addiction. May God be with you all and hold you in his hands of healing grace and give you peace.
Feel free to reach out to talk about coping.
We lose too many of our children and friends to addiction. May God be with you all and hold you in his hands of healing grace and give you peace.
Feel free to reach out to talk about coping.
Courtney Griggs
#50
Apr 27th, 2020 9:41 pm
Sending your family the best of thoughts, ongoing prayers, and unconditional love and strength during this time and forever more. Such a very hard thing to go through but may the strength of your family and support from all of your loved ones be with each and every one of you.
Melissa Thompson
#49
Apr 27th, 2020 7:49 pm
Blessings to your family.
Elizabeth Gunn
#48
Apr 27th, 2020 5:14 pm
Dearest Bratton family, I am heartbroken to see this. I never met this fine sounding young man, but have many fond memories of spending my younger years with you all in my life. I still have photos of y'all. Dwight, words cannot express my sorrow for what you are going through. Just know that you will see your son in Heaven one day, and it will be as if no time at all has passed. In the meantime, you will feel him with you when a breeze ruffles your hair and the leaves whisper in the trees, on a clear night when you look up and a star is winking at you, when a gloriously red cardinal lights in a nearby bush. You'll hear his voice as you sleep, telling you that he's ok, and feeling the most profound joy and peace imaginable. God bless you all.
Powers family
#47
Apr 27th, 2020 4:47 pm
We are so sorry for your loss and offer our deepest condolences in this time of mourning.
- Josh and Amy Powers
- Josh and Amy Powers
Mary
#46
Apr 27th, 2020 4:44 pm
I’m so sorry for the loss of your dear son. May the God of all comfort help you during this difficult time. (2 Corinthians 1:3,4 & Psalms 83:18). Jesus prayed for God’s Kingdom to come because He knew it would be able to solve all mankind’s problems even sickness and death. (Revelation 21:4,5 & Daniel 2:44).
Lynn King
#45
Apr 27th, 2020 1:22 pm
No words.
Martin Chilcote
#44
Apr 27th, 2020 12:39 pm
Dwight: so sorry for your loss. Know that I’m thinking about and praying for you and your family.
P T Hubbell
#43
Apr 27th, 2020 3:44 am
Dwight, please except my sincere condolences for your loss. May you find strength in your faith, family and friends. Hubb
Tina Johnson
#42
Apr 27th, 2020 12:00 am
No omg wells! You were so respectful to me, we had a very good work relationship, I couldn't have ever imagined this, rest well baby ! May God bless your family. I will always love you and respect you regardless. Heaven has gained a true angel, signed Ms.Tina Schickels in maumelle.
Fletcher Clement
#41
Apr 26th, 2020 10:50 pm
So very sad.
"Golden lads and girls all must,
As chimney sweepers,
Come to dust".
"Golden lads and girls all must,
As chimney sweepers,
Come to dust".
Brenda Norsworthy
#40
Apr 26th, 2020 8:43 pm
My heart broke as I read the wonderful obituary for your son. You do not know me, almost 3 years ago I lost my son in much the same way. I thank you for telling Wells story. I have been trying to rebuild good memories. My son was fun, smart and always inventing new words, sayings and songs. Thank you for sparking my memory. I am praying for all of you.
Leighton Weeks
#39
Apr 26th, 2020 10:10 am
I remember Wells as a toddler. The cutest little boy you have ever seen. I will always have memories of Wells playing endless hours of catch with his sweet mother, Alison, in their front yard ,and Wells being pulled in a red wagon by his father, Dwight. Bliss would hold his hand as he walked down the street, the adoring big sister. Our Condolences to this family.
Shawnrita and Tamesha (Schickels Cleaners)
#38
Apr 26th, 2020 9:46 am
We miss you Wells!!!! We are praying for the family. Wells was very respectful young man, and just so down to earth. He was and will always be our little buddy!!! His favorite words" What's up giirrls" just a beautiful soul!!! Gone to soon.
We love you and we are always thinking of you.
We love you and we are always thinking of you.
Rebecca Seaton Schug
#37
Apr 26th, 2020 9:14 am
My heart is breaking for your family at this time of your loss of your sweet son. May God wrap his arms around you all. Praying for your family.
Jacque Ptak
#36
Apr 25th, 2020 8:44 pm
Alison, Mark, Bliss, Dwight, Franz and Colin
I am so deeply sadden by the news of Wells passing. I’ll always remember Wells with a red freckled face and wet hair from playing so hard in the neighborhood. Alway a big smile.
Sending love and prayers your way
I am so deeply sadden by the news of Wells passing. I’ll always remember Wells with a red freckled face and wet hair from playing so hard in the neighborhood. Alway a big smile.
Sending love and prayers your way
Elizabeth Wingfield Laughlin
#35
Apr 25th, 2020 8:23 pm
I am saddened by the sudden death of one of my favorite 7th grade students. He was a joy to teach and was so sweet. Bless all of your families, Dwight and Alison. Love to you all.
John Giblin
#34
Apr 25th, 2020 6:08 pm
This tragic news is beyond belief. My heart goes out to the entire family, as do my prayers. God bless all of you ; He grieves your loss along with you.
Raymond Granger
#33
Apr 25th, 2020 8:40 am
I am sorry for your loss. Will be praying for your family.
Holt family
#32
Apr 25th, 2020 8:31 am
Asking God to send you peace and good memories. Such a hard loss of a wonderful young man. Our family has so far escaped this; with empathy, my heart breaks for you. I will be donating to Renewal Ranch recovery center in Conway.
Miles Dierks
#31
Apr 25th, 2020 3:41 am
My prayers are with your family.
Linda Fell Swain
#30
Apr 24th, 2020 9:59 pm
So sorry for your loss - A sweet life gone much too soon. May you find peace and comfort in precious memories. Praying for your family.
Ziggy
#29
Apr 24th, 2020 8:23 pm
I miss him so much
Cindy Chenault
#28
Apr 24th, 2020 7:26 pm
Praying the days to come will help to bring your family peace. I am so very sad for your loss. Sending my love.
Trickey family
#27
Apr 24th, 2020 6:14 pm
Allison and Mark and family, I am so sorry for your loss, I can’t imagine the pain you are going through, especially at a time we cannot all grieve together. You are in my thoughts and prayers for healing and peace
Brother Richard Sanker
#26
Apr 24th, 2020 6:06 pm
Wells will be remembered at Mass this weekend at Catholic High School. And parents, remember the counsel of the Lord: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4 That is our prayer for you and all those who love Wells.
Paige Majors
#25
Apr 24th, 2020 5:40 pm
What a cutie pie he was at Second Pres Preschool! Such fond memories of him. My prayers are with you all!!!!
Libby C
#24
Apr 24th, 2020 5:16 pm
To Bliss, Colin and your family - I’m so so sorry for your loss. At a time when words fail, this is such a beautifully written tribute to Wells. Sending you all lots of love and prayers, and a promise to always remember him.
Dylan Thompson
#23
Apr 24th, 2020 4:11 pm
My deepest condolences to the Bratton and Hayes family. I can’t imagine what you must be feeling right now. May Wells Rest In Peace and be free. Sending positive thoughts and vibes to you all.
Lisa Fischer
#22
Apr 24th, 2020 4:11 pm
Having known Allison, Dwight and Aunt Paige for more than 35 years, my heart breaks in grief. Having suffered as a sibling and child of addicts, I can only empathize but of course, I haven't walked in YOUR shoes. This obituary was precious. Thank you for your candor. What a sweet young man Wells was and what a lasting impact his life will have. My sincere condolences.
Tommy Foltz
#21
Apr 24th, 2020 3:41 pm
Dwight, I’m so sorry. Beautiful obituary for its truth, humor and love. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Tommy
Tommy
Dale R. Wilson
#20
Apr 24th, 2020 3:12 pm
I hope that it will be of comfort to know that so many grieve with you.
May light perpetual shine on him.....
May light perpetual shine on him.....
Michael Held
#19
Apr 24th, 2020 3:00 pm
I am so sorry to hear about Wells. I have so many great memories of us hanging out as kids when I use to live a little up the street on White Oak Ln. Weather it was hanging out at the racquet club or outside our houses, Wells always brought so much energy and happiness with him. Much love and prayers yalls way.
Max Smith
#18
Apr 24th, 2020 2:48 pm
- Wells was such a great friend and person to be around. It feels like yesterday me and him were fishing at the St. Charles pond and chasing each other around with airsoft guns. I will never forget you Wellsman!
- Dwight, Allison, Bliss, Mark, Colin, you are all in my prayers and I want to thank you all for the great memories that we share with Wells!
- Dwight, Allison, Bliss, Mark, Colin, you are all in my prayers and I want to thank you all for the great memories that we share with Wells!
Laurie Geurin
#17
Apr 24th, 2020 1:39 pm
He has given so many amazing memories and I know will be deeply missed by so many. My prayers for the family will continue.
Donna Morey
#16
Apr 24th, 2020 1:33 pm
I am so sad for your loss. Know that Our Creator’s fullness of time is beyond our comprehension. May each of you feel the power of being lifted up by friends and family during your grief.
Grace, peace and love,
Donna Morey
Grace, peace and love,
Donna Morey
John Thompson
#15
Apr 24th, 2020 12:58 pm
I am so sad for your family loss. I pray for all the family and friends, my God give you comfort in these times. He was always a nice young man from times I was around him.
Tammy Felts Berkey
#14
Apr 24th, 2020 12:30 pm
May your memories bring you comfort and keep your son close in your heart. May God wrap his arms around the family and give you peace. You are all in my prayers.
Terry Barket
#13
Apr 24th, 2020 12:27 pm
My heart is heavy with grief...grief over Wells’ life cut short by the jaws of addiction. I mourn with you. I weep with you. May you find peace and comfort knowing that Wells suffers no more. May God give you strength, courage and hope. I am here for you.
Janet Keller
#12
Apr 24th, 2020 12:06 pm
No words can ease the pain. Such a heartbreaking story. Love, prayers, and hugs, ❤️
Leslie Basham
#11
Apr 24th, 2020 11:14 am
I am so sorry about the loss of Wells! My heart is breaking for you and you all will be in my prayers constantly! May God give you all the peace that passes all understanding!
Ted Cashion
#10
Apr 24th, 2020 11:13 am
Dwight: so sorry for your loss. Know that I’m thinking about and praying for you and your family.
Bob McArthur
#9
Apr 24th, 2020 10:45 am
What a great kid and young man! Got to coach Wells in baseball and that will be my fond memory of Wells. Sleep with the Angels Wells!
DeWight, Allison and Bliss, my hope is after the grieving you will remember the great times with your son and brother!
Peace, Bob McArthur
DeWight, Allison and Bliss, my hope is after the grieving you will remember the great times with your son and brother!
Peace, Bob McArthur
Roma Fawcett
#8
Apr 24th, 2020 10:10 am
Today my heart broke, tears flowed, I am so sorry and my heart goes out to you. I lost my grandson at age 20, also graduate of Catholic High, attending University of AR. He was my everything, loved him dearly. My prayers are with you and pray everyday this monster will not take another loved one. What a handsome young man, just thank God you had him for 23 years. Again I am so sorry and send a prayer for you.
John and Christy Wells
#7
Apr 24th, 2020 10:09 am
We are so sorry for your family's loss. May you find peace.
Mike Taylor
#6
Apr 24th, 2020 5:45 am
From the Offutt-Hicks side of the family. My grandmother, Anna Lee Offutt Hicks, sister of Paul Offutt and his wife, Angie Mae Liggon,
Deepest sympathies knowing mere words offer so little comfort yet know you are not alone. God bless.
Deepest sympathies knowing mere words offer so little comfort yet know you are not alone. God bless.
Margie Koenig Busbey
#5
Apr 24th, 2020 2:59 am
Dear Alison, Bliss, Mark ,Dwight and family,
My deepest condolences go out to my beautiful Kappa sister and your family. Alison, gosh, we go way back as friends meeting at U of A in 1981. We have so many shared memories with our families, such as weddings, parties, baby showers, baby birthday parties and just fun get together with friends.
My deepest condolences go out to my beautiful Kappa sister and your family. Alison, gosh, we go way back as friends meeting at U of A in 1981. We have so many shared memories with our families, such as weddings, parties, baby showers, baby birthday parties and just fun get together with friends.
Greg Bryant
#4
Apr 24th, 2020 2:49 am
Larkin and I are deeply, deeply saddened to learn of Wells’ passing. It was 23 years ago this month I met Dwight and Alison and two month old Wells. I remember it like yesterday. Most heartfelt condolences. Greg and Larkin Bryant.
Cathy Fox
#3
Apr 23rd, 2020 8:54 pm
Alison and Mark,
My heart is breaking for you.I am praying for your family.
Cathy
My heart is breaking for you.I am praying for your family.
Cathy
Tommy Mathieu
#2
Apr 23rd, 2020 8:25 pm
A perfect obituary for a perfect soul! He was love personified and will be missed terribly by all that knew and loved him! My life was richer for knowing the Wellsman.
Evans Family
#1
Apr 23rd, 2020 5:16 pm
We can’t begin to imagine what you are feeling, but please let us share our heartfelt condolences. May the God of all comfort help to ease the pain of your grief. Truly sorry for your loss.