T.J. (Tom) Welch, 76, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2014, in Boca Raton, FL with loving family by his side. He had struggled with complications from Parkinson's and heart disease. Tom was pre-deceased by his parents, Clifford and Evelyn Welch of Jellico, TN, siblings Wanda (Robert) Rohlfing & Royce (Roberta) Welch, son Cory Welch, wife Cynthia (Stidham) Welch and in-laws Warren and Jeannine Stidham of Anderson. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Adrienne & Steve Mensack, and his five grandchildren: Cameron, Jordan, Ava, Braden & Alyssa, all residing in Delray Beach, FL. He also leaves behind his loving siblings: Joyce (James) Willis, Bobbie (J. Walter) Chilcote, Jolene (Donald) Hare, Sherril (Arthur) Langdon, Reece (Linda) Welch, Lendon (Charlotte) Welch & brother in-law Denny (Kristine) Stidham. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and countless good friends.
Tom touched the lives of so many with his sense of humor and his kindness. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He graduated from Jellico H.S. where he played basketball and football. That love of sports stayed with him throughout his life and he actively supported Purdue football and basketball, the Colts, even Anderson H.S. where you could find him at the Wigwam back in the day at every home game. Tom loved his family and he loved the simple joys in life. We will miss you here on Earth and can't wait for you to make us smile when we see you again in Heaven.
A memorial service will be held at 12:00 Saturday, February 1, 2014 at Central Christian Church in Anderson where Tom and his wife were active members for thirty-five years.
Arrangements by Gary Panoch Funeral Home, 6140 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, FL 33487. www.gpanochfunerals.com 561-997-8580