Former West Virginia sports editor and delegate Danny Wells has died at age 84
The West Virginia Democratic Party released a statement Wednesday afternoon acknowledging Wells’ legislative service.
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of Danny Wells. Both as a member of the House of Delegates and as a sports reporter, Danny exhibited a real joy for life. Danny made everything he was involved with more fun. He always had a smile on his face and he had the ability to put a smile on the face of all those he came in contact with,” said state Democratic Party Chairman Mike Pushkin.
“Danny Wells will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all those who were impacted by his remarkable life. His spirit and contributions will never be forgotten.”
Wells, a Democrat, first started serving in the House of Delegates in 2005, serving in a multi-member district in Kanawha County. He continued until 2014.
From 1962 to 1989, he was a columnist/sports writer for the Charleston Gazette. He then worked as sports editor for the Charleston Gazette from 1989 to 2001.
In 2018, he wrote a column in remembrance of his time in the sports section: “I have fond memories of a loud, clattering newsroom.”
“Of course, at the time, it never occurred to me that I would spend the next 40 years of my life in that environment,” he wrote. “But it turned out to be an enjoyable experience, all things considered.”
