Lillian Ariettia Wells

Lillian Arriettia Wells, a mother and lifelong resident of Corbin, Kentucky, passed on January 17, 2025, at the age of 82 while living her life to the best and fullest.

Lillian survives by her children: Donald, Bobby, Arrie, Austin, and Sage; ten plus grandchildren; thirteen plus great-grandchildren; and seven plus great-great-grandchildren; and her baby sister Nancy. She is predeceased by son and daughters Freddy James, Theresa Ann, and Sharron Kay; parents Fred L. and Lee Ann Wells; and five brothers and sisters.

Lilian was born in Corbin, Kentucky, on July 6, 1942, to Fred and Lee Ann Wells. She married Paul J. Stewart in 1957. Her lifelong legacy as a mother to many began with the birth of her first child in 1958. Lillian raised her own children, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren, and she had been happily helping raise her great-great-grandchild Arrie, with whom she had a very special bond.

Lillian was a devoted mom and friend. She enjoyed quilting, tending to her vegetable and flower garden, traveling, and just fiddling around. She adventured from the Florida Keys to Italy and everywhere else in between. She loved big family get-togethers with all her kids in one place celebrating the day. She was a listener, a steadfast point to lean on, and, if needed, a gossiper. Family and friends will deeply miss the woman affectionately known as Ma. 

The service for Lillian will take place on Sunday, January 26, 2025. Visitation begins at 1:00 pm with the service following at 2:00 pm. Both the viewing and service will take place at 607 Master Street, Corbin, KY 40701 at the Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home. Rev. Mike Lee will officiate Lillian’s celebration of life. You can offer your condolences at 303 W. 8th St., Corbin, KY 40701

When Tomorrow Starts Without Me

When tomorrow stars without me, and I’m not there to see,

If the sun should rise and find your eyes, all filled with tears for me. I wish so much you wouldn’t cry the way you did today, while thinking of the many things we didn’t get to say.

I know how much you loved me, as much as I love you, and each time that you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too.

But when tomorrow starts without me please try to understand that an Angel came and called my name and took me by the hand.

When tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right here, in your heart.