Peter N. Wells

Judge Peter N. Wells, 88, of DeWitt, passed away peacefully at Francis House on Friday, September 25, 2026.

Peter was born and raised in Ogdensburg, New York, the son of Judge John H. and Mary (Houlihan) Wells. It was there, in the town where he grew up, that Peter met Diana, the love of his life. Their lives together would become the foundation of the family and community he cherished so deeply.

Peter was a graduate of Manhattan College and Boston College Law School. His career in law was distinguished by a profound commitment to public service. Before taking the bench, he served as a New York State Assistant Attorney General and practiced law with Costello, Cooney & Fearon; William Micale & Wells; and Mackenzie Smith Lewis Mitchell & Hughes. He was elected DeWitt Town Justice and, in 1988 and again in 1998, was elected Onondaga County Surrogate Court Judge, serving with distinction for 20 years. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve and was a former member and Chair of the Town of DeWitt Republican Committee.

To those who knew him professionally, Peter was the Judge. To his family and friends, however, he was so much more. Peter believed deeply in family, friendship and community. He was a devoted member of Holy Cross Church for nearly 60 years.

He was a cherished father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor and friend whose generosity of spirit touched countless lives. He had an extraordinary ability to make people feel welcome and valued. He was always ready with a perfectly timed humorous remark that could bring a smile to anyone's face. Wherever he served, he brought with him a sense of warmth and genuine care for the people around him.

He loved gardening, skiing, golf, reading, crosswords, Broadway shows & music, and spending precious time on the St. Lawrence River. He found joy in the everyday—the flowers in his gardens, music and singing, family gatherings and time with those he loved – especially ‘Game Days’ cheering on the Buffalo Bills. He lived intentionally, generously and joyfully.

Peter was predeceased by his beloved wife, Diana (Barry) Wells; his brothers, John and Lawrence Wells; his sister, Sheila (Wells) Ashley; numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law; and his daughter-in-law, Brigitte Browney.

He is survived by his daughters, Mary Wells and Sarah Wells Tiffany (Thomas); his son, Matthew (Colleen), all of DeWitt; his beloved grandsons, Tripp and Zachary Tiffany; granddaughters, Lillian and Catherine Wells; his brother, Mark Wells; sisters-in-law Margaret Driscoll, Mary Douglas, Theresa Barry and Martha Barry; brothers-in-law William Barry and James Barry; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Peter leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who treasured him, and a community that was better because he was part of it. His absence will be felt in countless ways— in the counsel people will wish they could seek, and most of all, around the family table filled with love and laughter.

The Judge was larger than life and gave generously of himself. Peter’s legacy lives on in the people he loved, the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 1st from 4 – 7pm at Burns-Garfield Funeral Home, 3175 E. Genesee St., Syracuse.A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am on Friday, October 2nd at Holy Cross Church, 4112 E. Genesee St., DeWitt with Burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Francis House 108 Michaels Ave Syracuse NY 13208  or Hospice of CNY. 990 7th North St. Liverpool NY 13088