James Aaron "Pete" Fells, Sr., 73, a native of Palatka, and longtime resident of Tampa, entered the sunset of life on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at Suncoast Hospice Hillsborough Care Center at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Tampa. The son of Eugene and Claudia (Williams) Fells, he was born on Saturday, December 20, 1952.

James was raised in Palatka and was a proud 1970 graduate of Palatka Central High School, where he was a member of the school band. He later made Tampa his home, where he lived for many years. A hardworking man, James spent his career in the construction industry and was employed by Johns Manville and Gulf Coast Metals in Tampa.

Throughout his life, James found joy in the simple things that brought him happiness. He enjoyed watching GRIT TV and Westerns, with "Bonanza" being a favorite. He also enjoyed barbecuing, eating just about everything, spending time with his family, and especially enjoying his grandchildren. Affectionately known as "Pete," James will be remembered for the life he shared with his family and the many memories created with those who knew and loved him.

Through it all, James was a fighter. He faced life's challenges with remarkable strength, courage, and determination. Even during the most difficult times, his strength remained evident to those who loved him. He fought the good fight, leaving his family with an enduring example of perseverance and strength that will forever be remembered.

James was preceded in eternal rest by his wife, Carol June Fells (Bryant); parents, Eugene and Claudia (Williams) Fells; brothers, Warren Eugene "Smoke" Fells, Bill Fells, and Timothy Fells; father-in-law and mother-in-law, John L. Bryant, Sr. and Verbena Bryant; sister-in-law, Gloria Wilson Warren.

Cherished memories of James remain with his: son, James Aaron “Pete” Fells, II; daughter, Angel (Neville) Williams; brothers, Leon (Janice) Fells, Eugene (Lisa) Fells, Dexter (Lisa) Fells, Reno (Angelita) Fells, Keith Davis, Kevin Davis, and Ralph (Priscilla) Brown; sisters, Glenda Sharon, Ronice Reed, Novice White, Felicia (Terrell) Williams, LaShawn Harris, Carol Baker, and Cathy McCoy; aunt, Lucy Hutcherson; grandchildren, James Aaron Fells, III, Bryanna D. Fells, and Michael Mitchell, Jr.; great-grandchildren, James Aaron Fells, IV, and Genesis Aaron Fells; bonus children, Natasha and Wednesday "Wendy"; brother-in-law, John L. Bryant, Jr.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Visitation of family and friends will be 5-7 p.m., Friday, August 21 at Flagg’s Chapel of Serenity. Celebration of Pete’s Life will be 11 a.m., Saturday, August 22 at Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church, 4909 St. Johns Ave, Palatka. Rev. Karl N. Flagg, Senior Pastor and eulogist. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Palatka.