Elaine Henderson Welsh

Elaine is preceded in death by her loving daughter Suzanne Zanatta. She is survived by her husband, Stephen Welsh Jr.; daughter, Cindy Welsh; son, Stephen Welsh III; youngest son, John Welsh; sister Judy Parrish; niece, Crissy Drake; nephew, Jeff Jackson, 4 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren.

As a young woman, Elaine was named Miss City Beautiful 1958 in Memphis, TN and was given the Key to the City by the Mayor. She used her platform to be a voice for the less fortunate, giving speeches at events and ceremonies and giving back to the community, especially to her favorite charity St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

It was no secret that Mom loved to shop with a generous heart to give others the perfect gifts at Christmas time. She enjoyed nourishing her family with delicious meals seasoned with unconditional love. Mom’s favorite place was her beach condo in Puerto Vallarta (PV) where she loved to entertain and decorate for Christmas and the Holidays, which for her was the most wonderful time of the year. PV was her home away from home where she was blessed to share years of memories with her family and dearest friends who became family.

Anyone who met mom would tell you that she had a heart of gold which overflowed to others by her radiant smile, her laugh, her words of kindness, her acts of compassion, her warm hugs, and gentle guidance.

Elaine will forever be remembered as an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, and dear friend to many. She will be missed for the gentle ways that she made people feel special, she listened and encouraged those she met leaving a lasting impression whether it was by making you laugh when you were sad, celebrating your accomplishments, or just by caring for what you cared about. She loved well with style and with grace.

Mom (Tom Elaine, BayBain, Elaine, Mother) – though we are heartbroken by your physical departure, we honor you and remember the lifetime of memories you’ve left with us. We are humbled and grateful for your care, your friendship, and your love. You have made us into who we are today. You’ve touched our lives with unconditional love. We will always remember you for your beautiful soul and your selfless love. You will remain forever in our hearts.

The Family of Elaine Welsh asks that in lieu of flowers and gifts, that donations or acts of service/volunteerism be given to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital – explore ways to give here: https://www.stjude.org/about-st-jude/visit/locations.html

A short mass will be held at St. Mark The Evangelist Catholic Church on Tuesday, November 23, at 11 am at 1602 Thousand Oaks Dr., San Antonio, TX 78232 followed by a brief prayer ceremony at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery promptly at 1:45 pm at 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209 under a pavilion with seating and ample parking.

You’re also invited to join us for an informal reception. Experience delicious, fairly priced Texas BBQ with family and friends at one of the Welsh family’s favorite spots. Bring your photos, memories, and good humor for a celebration of Elaine’s life as we remember the joy and friendship she brought to all who loved her. Ample indoor/outdoor seating and drive-thru available, restaurant is attached to our local grocery store! We love the chicken, ribs, and brisket. See Menu: https://images.heb.com/is/content/HEBGrocery/PDF/true-texas-bbq-menu.pdf