Obituary Ray Wells # 423
Obituary Ray Wells # 423
7th August 1938 – 16th August 2024
Ray Wells passed away in Morrinsville on 16th August 2024. He was a very prominent wing three quarter in the late 1950s and 1960s and is remembered for his powerful running and lethal left foot centering kick. Ray made his first- class debut for Thames Valley against North Auckland in 1956 when he was only 17 years of age.
He went on to play another 60 games for the Valley and in doing so scored 96 points. R J Wells played in several All Black trials and was considered to be unlucky not to be chosen for the 1960 All Blacks tour to South Africa. He played in that famous 1662 win over Australia and when Thames Valley toured the South Island in 1964, and played 4 games in eight days. he scored a try in every match: against Otago, North Otago, Mid Canterbury and Canterbury.
He ended his playing career with two seasons for Waikato in 1965 and 1966. He scored a try for Waikato against South Africa on his 27th birthday.
Ray followed the fortunes of Thames Valley very closely and he was always pleased to see the team do well.
A private family service has been held but there will be a gathering to celebrate Ray’s life in Morrinsville on Saturday 21st September at 2pm at the Kereone Clubrooms.