Barrie Ellsworth Wells attended University of Pacific in Stockton, CA, where he graduated with a BA of Music in 1957. He continued his education there, completing a Masters of Music in 1962. He later completed his Doctorate of Music in 1971 at the University of Oregon.

He played the clarinet in the National Guard band. Starting in Galt CA, he taught in the public schools before moving to Yuba City teaching at the public high school. He later taught at the University of North Dakota for 9 years and Arizona State University for 18 years, teaching music education, aesthetics, and philosophy of music.

He retired to Eugene, OR, where he continued composing and arranging music. He pursued many other artistic and athletic endeavors; photography, camping, hiking, running, and backpacking.

He is survived by his wife and their two sons. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.