Joseph Welch, Sr.

The Life and Legacy of Joseph Welch, Sr.

Joseph Welch, Sr., 83, of Alexandria, Louisiana, passed away on Tuessday, September 8, 2026, at CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria.

Joseph was born on April 15, 1943, in Pineville, Louisiana, to the late Plas Welch and Geneva Shorts Welch. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, veteran, and friend whose life was marked by hard work, dedication, and service to his family and community.

A proud United States Army Veteran, Joseph honorably served his country during the Vietnam War. His military service remained an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.

Throughout his working years, Joseph was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family. He worked as a machinist and later retired from Dresser Industries. After retirement, Joseph continued serving his community as a bus driver with the Rapides Parish School Board, where he eventually retired after faithfully transporting and caring for generations of students.

Above all, Joseph was a family man. He shared 59 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Ethel Welch, with whom he built a lifetime of memories, love, and family.

Joseph leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 59 years, Ethel Welch; two daughters and two sons; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; five brothers; five sisters; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Joseph Welch, Sr. will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his years of faithful employment, his service to the community, and most importantly, the love and commitment he showed to his family throughout his life.

His legacy of service, strength, and devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.