Nolan Wells Funeral Held in Mississippi as Family and Community Seek Answers on Undetermined Death

Family and supporters of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells gathered Monday at Center Pointe Church in Mississippi to mourn his death, whose cause remains undetermined after his body was recovered two days following a July 4 boating trip to Horn Island.

Rev. Al Sharpton opened the service with a prayer and later delivered remarks that included a call for investigation. "We want answers," Sharpton told mourners, according to coverage of the event. He announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to a conviction.

Filmmaker Tyler Perry had previously pledged a matching amount, bringing the total reward to $100,000.

Nolan's mother, Christine Wonsley, spoke about her son's memory. "As much as our hearts are broken, we find peace in knowing that our son is resting in the arms of the Lord," she said. She described Nolan's absence as leaving "an emptiness that can never truly be filled" and urged attendees to "be like Nolan" and brighten the lives of others.

His father, Eugene Wonsley, spoke of Nolan as an example for his younger siblings. "You were not just making a name for yourself, but you were also laying the groundwork for your little brother," he said. The service recognized Wells as a student-athlete whose life mattered to family and community members in attendance.