Leslie (Les) Earl Wellman, 67, of Cartersville, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at his residence after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He worked as a Senior Operating Partner at Waffle House for 39 years.
Les was a loving husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. He had a deep passion for music and loved playing his guitar. Known for his quick wit and sense of humor, he loved to make people laugh and always reminded those around him never to take life too seriously. Some of his happiest moments were spent outdoors with a fishing rod in his hand, or enthusiastically cheering on Ohio State football.
Above all, Les treasured his family. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren, whether they were making clever traps for Santa and the Easter Bunny or being introduced to all kinds of music. Les brought laughter, incredible storytelling, and steady, unconditional love into the lives of everyone who knew him. He will be loved and missed always. And who knows— maybe he has finally gotten the answers to all of his questions about Bigfoot and aliens.
Les is preceded in death by his parents Mason and Marjorie Wellman, brother Don Wellman, and sister Sharon Wellman. Though he is no longer with us, his vibrant memory will live on through his wife Cynthia Wellman, son Christopher Wellman (Ali Wellman), daughters Ashley Wellman, and Brittany Wellman, granddaughters Riley Hatch, Lilah Wellman, and Jamie Wellman, grandson Walter Henry Wellman, sisters Karen Wellman and Mary Stacey, brother Michael (Bo) Wellman, and many nephews and nieces that he loved dearly.
A memorial service to celebrate Les's life will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026 at 2:00 pm in the chapel of Parnick Jennings Funeral Home with Pastor Chris Blackwell officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm on Monday prior to the service. Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery. At the family's request, the burial will be private.
Parnick Jennings Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Les Wellman. He will be remembered for his fun, loving and caring personality and the love he shared with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.