Jack Duane Sells

Jack Duane Sells, 78, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, passed away peacefully at home on August 29, 2025.

Born on August 13, 1947, in Ottumwa, Iowa, to Azel and Nadean (“Betty”) Sells. Following Azel’s death when Jack was a young child, Betty married William (“Bill”) Etheridge, whom Jack considered his father throughout his lifetime. He Grandmother Hazel (“Granny”) Easton helped raise him for many years.

Jack graduated from Ottumwa High School in 1966 and later attended Laramie County Community College. He married the love of his life, Elizabeth Ann Parcel, on July 16, 1966. Before his long military career, Jack worked as a house framer, as a mechanic, and as a manager at a local Phillips 66 service station.

Jack served briefly in the U.S. Army before dedicating over 30 years to the Wyoming Air National Guard, retiring as a Master Sergeant (MSgt). He served as First Sergeant for the Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron as well as a cook in the Services Flight, as a carpenter and a crash & rescue firefighter in the Civil Engineer Squadron, and as a security augmentee for the Security Forces Squadron. He earned numerous awards and deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

A man of faith, Jack was actively involved at Calvary Chapel Cheyenne (where he was baptized) and at Calvary Chapel South. He served as a deacon for several years and regularly attended the men's Bible study.

Jack loved reading history books, especially biographies and military accounts, and had a passion for guns. Above all, he cherished spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Known for his sarcasm and storytelling, Jack had a knack for knowing people everywhere - and if he didn't, he'd get to know them quickly. He was very generous, helping anyone he knew who was in need.

Jack was preceded in death by his son, Dwayne Sells; parents, Azel Sells, Bill Etheridge, and Betty Etheridge; and siblings John Sells, Tom Etheridge, and Sandy Sells.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Elizabeth Sells of Cheyenne; son, Shaun Sells, and his wife Sheila of Cheyenne; grandchildren, Ashlynn Sells (Janie) of Eloy, Arizona; Abigail Streyle (Caleb) of Cheyenne, and Caleb Sells (Rebecca) of Cheyenne; great-grandchildren, Jadyn Streyle and Natalie Streyle; a daughter-in-law, Rene Sells of Cheyenne; siblings, Dick Sells of Iowa and Cindy Etheridge of Kentucky; and numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and other relatives.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on September 16, 2025, at Calvary Chapel Cheyenne, 9209 Ridge Road, Cheyenne, Wyoming. Cremation has taken place.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite church or veterans' organization. Please send a card to Elizabeth to let her know of your contribution.