Emil Berkeley Wells III

Emil “Buckie” Berkeley Wells (1980–2023) Emil “Buckie” Berkeley Wells, 42, of Kissimmee, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on September 18, 2023. A compassionate teacher, devoted coach, inspiring mentor, and loving friend, son, and brother, Buckie left an indelible mark on the lives he touched. Born on November 12, 1980, in Syracuse, New York, to Emil “Buck” and Charlene (Trumble) Wells, Buckie was imbued with a spirit of passion and leadership from a young age. He blossomed as a student-athlete at Altmar-Parish-Williamstown (APW) High School, setting the stage for a life committed to education, coaching, and community building. Earning his bachelor’s degree, Buckie found his calling in education. He returned to his New York roots initially, empowering students to realize their potential both in the classroom and on the wrestling mat, baseball fields, and football fields. His passion for teaching and coaching led him to Florida, where he became an inspirational figure at Poinciana High School and Liberty High School. Scores of former students and athletes have shared the significant positive impact Buckie made in their lives, calling him a father to them, crediting him for the advice, support, and counsel he offered them; and even noting that they would not have made it to graduation without him. Buckie changed lives, and was known to adopt some of his students as his own, so this is not surprising. It is, however, a wonderful testament to the deep love he received from and shared with so many. Buckie wasn’t just defined by his professional roles; he was the cornerstone of many communities. From founding R-VIBE, an online California Reggae community, to nurturing lasting bonds with family, classmates, teammates, and fellow educators, his influence was far-reaching. Buckie’s love knew no bounds, and though his time was tragically cut short, his legacy of compassion and community lives on. He is survived by his loving fiancée, Andrea N. DeMay; their son, Emil B. “Bubba” Wells IV; his parents, Buck and Charlene Wells; siblings, Eric Bryan (Kate) Wells and Edward Bradley (Marshae) Wells; and nephews, Micah, Jacob, Elliot, Levi, and Wyatt; and a host of cherished friends, students, and community members. A celebration of Buckie’s life will be held on September 30, 2023 at Kissimmee Lakefront Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a GoFundMe campaign established to support his wife Andrea and son Bubba. The campaign aims to ensure their well-being and continue Buckie’s legacy. Contributions can be made at: https://gofund.me/d93092d7. Those wishing to share memories, photos, or videos can do so on Honoring and Remembering Coach Buckie. That page can be accessed at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551431019374. Condolences may also be offered at Osceola Memory Gardens by visiting http://www.oscoelamemgds.com.

Emil Berkeley Wells III

November 12, 1980 - September 18, 2023