Era Virginia Wells, affectionately known as Virginia, was a beacon of love and selflessness whose light ceased to shine on this earth on November 7, 2025. Born on March 23, 1939, in Esto, Florida, Virginia’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering devotion to her family, her faith, and the simple beauties of the world around her. Her peaceful passing occurred in Dothan, Alabama, surrounded by the love of her family.
Virginia’s life was rich with the joy of shared moments and the warmth of a close-knit family. She is survived by her adoring husband of 67 years, M. Allen Wells, who found in her not just a wife but a lifelong companion. Her legacy continues through her daughter, Dawn Hicks (Gerry), and her cherished grandchildren, Christalle Twomey (Brek), Christopher Bodiford (Ashley), Joshua Bodiford (Courtni), Drew Hicks, and Chad Hicks (Meredeth). Her great-grandchildren, Weston, Benjamin, Wells, Ellis Bodiford, Natalea, and Brinlea Hicks, will grow up hearing of their great grandmother’s kindness and grace. Virginia’s sister, Martha Williams, and brother, Frank Enfinger (Wynelle), along with a host of nieces and nephews, also mourn the loss of a truly remarkable soul. She now joins her predeceased parents, Archie and Mary Nell Enfinger, and siblings, Gene (Inge), William (Bertha), Archie (Tina Mae), and Mary Nell McKinney (Paisley), in eternal rest.
Virginia’s professional life was marked by a successful career as a legal secretary in civil service at Ft. Rucker, from which she retired at the age of 55. This early retirement afforded her more precious time to dedicate to her many passions and to serve her community. As a member of Esto Baptist Church, Virginia’s melodious voice once graced the choir, and her faith was the cornerstone of her existence.
Those who knew Virginia will remember her as someone who appreciated the simple things in life. She was a skilled seamstress whose careful hands created both beautiful work and lasting family memories. She loved the outdoors and often found peace in the sound of birds and the quiet of nature. Known for her cooking, she took pride in preparing meals that brought her loved ones together around the table for good food, laughter, and conversation.
Above all else, Virginia was a testament to the power of love. The epitome of a loving relationship she shared with her husband set a standard for all who knew them. Her role as a mother and nana was her top priority, and through her actions, she taught the values of giving and caring. Smart, with a quick wit and a gentle heart, Virginia was the embodiment of the word ‘loving.’
In her final days, Virginia was lovingly cared for by Helen Granger and the compassionate team at Gentiva Hospice, to whom the family extends their deepest gratitude for their dedication and care.
A celebration of Virginia’s life will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at 11am in the Sunset Memorial Park Chapel. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service.
