Betty J. Welsh

Betty J. Welsh of Austin, Texas passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 at age 93. Born in Jackson Township, Van Wert County, Ohio on November 4, 1919. Betty was the daughter of Homer Dolph Ferris and the former Ruth Louisa Weldy.

She was preceded in death by her husband of almost 60 years, Andrew J. Welsh. Betty is survived by her brother, John Ferris of Peoria, Arizona; two sons, Michael Welsh of Centennial, Colorado and Thomas Welsh of San Antonio, Texas; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and three nephews.

Betty was raised in a pastoral setting on a farm in rural western Ohio. Her first years of education were in a one-room, multi-grade school. Like all farm children of that era, her life was centered around the farm, the school and the church.

During World War II Betty and her parents moved to San Diego, California and worked at Consolidated Aircraft Company. As a true "ROSIE THE RIVETER" she helped build B-24 "Liberator" bombers that her brother flew.

After the War Andy and Betty Welsh settled in Austin where she became an instant Texan and truly loved Austin. She was a life-long Methodist becoming a member of First United Methodist Church of Austin in 1948. Betty was active with the United Methodist Women of Faith United Methodist Church for 30 years. Her professional life led her to work in the state capitol building for the Texas Board of Control and later for several federal agencies.

The Funeral Service will be at Faith United Methodist Church at 2:00 pm. on Saturday, July 13 and celebrated by the Pastor Katy Fitzhugh.

The family is grateful to the staff of The Summit at Westlake and Hospice Austin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Women at Faith United Methodist Church.