Delores F. Welch

Delores Welch, age 88, of Halls, formerly of Big Pine, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her residence, surrounded by her loving family. She fought a courageous 13-year battle with Alzheimer’s, facing each day with grace and joy.

Delores was of the Baptist faith and a member of North Fork Baptist Church, NC. She took great pleasure in tending to her flowers and garden. She also found joy in being outside and mowing her lawn. After 34 years of dedicated service, she retired from Kroger and spent her retirement years in the company of her beloved children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was well-known for her Wednesday dinners, which were a cherished tradition; her door was always open, and all were welcomed with a warm meal.

Preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Welch; her parents, Jobie and Macie Fortner; her brother, Arthur Fortner, and sister-in-law, Carol Fortner; and her sister, Leta Torbush.

Delores is survived by her sons, Mike Welch (Roma) and Jeff Welch (Ginger); her daughter, Dina Moore (Mike); six grandchildren, Mindy Welch, Amy Durham (Mike), Adam Moore, Tyler Moore (Ashley), Leslie Rickman (Tyler) and Whitney Welch; and six great-grandchildren, Jaxson and Mason Moore, Liam Durham, Mika, Tucker and Harris Rickman. She is also survived by her brother, Walter Fortner (Judy) and her sister, Leola Powell (George), as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her caregivers, Lula Ellison, Jean Ailor, Lupe Sauceda, Mindy Welch and Amanda Lewelling and to the countless family and friends who provided exceptional support and care during her illness. Special thanks are extended to Gentiva Hospice and their nurses, Celeste, Sonia, Patty and Molly, for their unwavering love and dedication.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 22, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Mynatt Funeral Home, Halls Chapel. A service will follow at 7:00 p.m. The family will gather at Mynatt Funeral Home, Halls Chapel, at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2024, for a procession to Greenwood Cemetery for a 1:00 p.m. graveside service. Pastor Bill McCarter will officiate, Music: Allen Berry. Pallbearers: Adam Moore, Tyler Moore, Mike Durham, Scott Powell, Tyler Rickman, Jason Ryder, Rodney Ryder and Marty Stansberry. The family welcomes donations to Alzheimer’s of Tennessee in memory of Delores.