Obituary of Bessie Jean Welch

Bessie Jean Welch, 80, of the Birdtown Community entered her eternal life on Tuesday, November 27, 2018. She is the daughter of the late Sam and Lucinda Reed. She was preceded in death by her husband Jimmy Welch who passed away in July 2001.

Bessie was a known for her smile and loving personality and was called Gram by many. She attended Echota Baptist Church and was also a member of Qualla Arts and Crafts. One of her most favorite things to do was to sit on the river banks and fish.

She is survived by seven children, Agnes, Britney(Joe), Henry (Janie), Scott (Henrietta), Blue (Mary), Kirby (Sheila) and June (Nikki);  six siblings Matilda (Pat), Julia (Kirk), Lynn, Mary, Tony and Bruce (Jessica); three adopted children Red (April) and Jules (Bryan); ten grandchildren Sam, Jimmy Blue, Scotty, Charmin, Kisha, Steven, Maddy, Nedi, Jimmy and Boss; nine great grandchildren Rae, Sami, Maiya, Emilee, Alfred, Epps, Bryn, Nikki and Bates; and one great-great grandchild Stetson and

Preceding her in death was two sisters Ollie and Iva and one brother Bill.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 1, 2018 at 11:00 am at Cherokee Pentecostal Holiness Church with Dr. James Mills and Rev. Eddie Sherrill officiating. Burial will follow the service at Welch Family Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jamie, Woody, Kerry, Tyler, Lil Kirk, Cowboy, Austin and Josh.

Visitation will begin Friday, November 30, 2018 at 6:00 pm at Cherokee Pentecostal Holiness Church.

Appalachian Funeral Services is assisting the family with arrangements.