Francis Jack Welch was born on June 6, 1924 and departed this earth on August 15, 2018. He was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Jean Coker Welch. He is survived by his son, Frank Welch (Patricia); daughter, Cindy Welch Gilbert (Tommy); grandchildren, Justin (Robyn) and Jason (Christa) Forrester, Lindsay and Matthew Welch; great grandchildren, Cade and Tanner Forrester, and special nephew Jim Coker, Jr. He served his country proudly as a veteran of WW11 in the Army Air Forces Unit and was a member of the 801st/492nd Bombardment Group Carpetbaggers. He flew 200 combat hours over various missions over Germany and Europe. He was awarded a purple Heart and a British Flying Medal and the OSS Congressional Medal. He was retired from ACIPCO after 40 years of service. Special thanks to caregiver, Tonya Shelton and neighbors, Jim and Susan Hickman and Ed Stevens. A graveside service and burial will be held on Friday, August 17, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Elmwood Cemetery; Pastor Don Goodwin will officiate.
