Annella Grace Wells Duffes

Annella Grace Wells Duffes passed away on January 30, 2026, at Riverside Nursing Home in Thomaston, Georgia, at the age of 95. Annella’s life was filled with warmth, generosity, and a deep devotion to her family and friends. Born in Mount Vernon, Georgia, Annella grew up on her family’s farm with her three younger brothers. After graduating from the University of Georgia, she taught high school in Albany, where she met and married her husband, the late James Kenneth Duffes. Annella and Jim moved to Griffin in 1961 and made a home there with their two daughters. An avid gardener and past president of the Garden Club of Griffin, she took great joy in caring for her gardens and was especially proud of her yard in Spring with its azaleas, magnolias, and dogwoods in bloom. Annella was also an excellent cook, a skill she learned from her mother and tried to pass on to her daughters. Her love of cooking, especially baking cakes and making candy, was well known. During the holidays, she could be found in the kitchen creating delicious gifts for friends and neighbors. Hosting parties and celebrations of the season were among Annella’s greatest joys. She enjoyed holding festive gatherings at her home, which would often be the scene for spirited bridge games with “Charlie’s Angels.” Annella remained devoted to loved ones throughout her long life. Her helpfulness extended beyond her family, touching friends and neighbors through generosity and willingness to help. Her spirit put others at ease and blessed all who knew her. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Melissa Wells Duffes (Steven) and Anne Duffes Weldon (Jeff), and her three grandchildren, Navy Lt. James Duffes “Duffy” Weldon, Grace Anne Weldon, and Ella Melissa Weldon. Her grandchildren, in particular, held a very special place in her heart. She delighted in spending time with them—reading books, telling stories, and creating memories that will always be treasured. Annella Wells Duffes will be dearly missed by her family and friends, but her memory will live on in the gardens she tended so lovingly, the recipes she shared so generously, and the happy gatherings she hosted throughout the years. A public celebration of Annella’s life will be announced later. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Riverside Nursing Home in Thomaston.

Tributes

Annella Grace Wells Duffes

November 27, 1930 - January 30, 2026