Mr. John L. Welch was born January 1, 1940, in Henderson, TN. He gained his wings on Sunday,

June 8, 2025.

John was baptized at Cool Springs Baptist Church at an early age, a reflection of his strong faith

and the foundations of his values. He faithfully served as the Chairperson of the Deacon Board,

Treasurer, Adult Sunday School Teacher, and Superintendent before his health failed.

He was the oldest son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Lonnie and Clara Welch. He had five siblings that

he grew up with and helped raise after his father passed away at an early age: two sisters

preceded, (Florene Welch and Mozella Baldridge) (Sevorid). He leaves behind his baby sister,

Yvonne McNeese (Andrew) and baby brother, James Welch (Donna).

Mr. John led a fruitful life after meeting his lovely wife of 63 years Annie Lee Welch (May) out

of Jackson, TN. They have three children: Shelia, Lonnie, and Wauneice (Bryan); seven

grandchildren and two great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends he

loved. He was a dedicated husband, father (daddy), grandfather (PAPA), and great grandfather.

Mr. John loved his family!

John Welch completed his education at Chester County School System in Henderson, TN. Where

he received his high school diploma and participated in athletics, basketball being his favorite.

After High School, he went straight to the workforce. He worked for Lofton Chevrolet; he was

the first black police officer in Chester County in 1978 and then found himself at ITT

Grinnell/Anvil manufacturing company. He received technical training through his employer.

Then, he became one of the top electricians at ITT Grinnell/Anvil. He also held a leadership role

as President of the Work Union at ITT Grinnell. He worked for 34 years, and he retired on March

15, 2002.

Mr. Welch has never failed to make an impact on anyone he meets. He had faith/belief in Jesus, a

stellar character, work ethic, and believed in his community here in Chester County. He has been

involved with community and character-building organizations such as : Lucyville Lodge #95,

past Worship Master; Worthy Patron of Electa Chapter #255 order of Eastern Star; P.H.A. Royal

Mason Chapter #141.; St. Andrew Commandry #41, Royal and Select Master of the Tennessee

council #4; T.P. Haroldson #4; Zarah Temple #151, past Commander Right; past Deputy of the

West Tennessee of Royal Arch Mason; President of Jonah; Co-chair of the Dr. Martin Luther

King, Jr. program committee; past Chester County Commissioner of District 6; a member of the

Board of Zone Appeals; in 1978, he received a great honor in Los Angelos California in the

Masons as a 33

rd

degree mason. Lastly, the City of Henderson recognized John L. Welch for

CCHS Legacy Inductee in 2017.

John L. Welch will be deeply missed, but the impact of his love and light will forever shine in the

hearts of those who knew him.

Funeral Location Cool Springs Baptist Church -300 Harmon St. Henderson TN 38340

Interment will be at Chambers Chapel Cemetery - 400 Chambers Chapel Rd. Bethel Springs TN