Obituary of Jesse James Welch

Jesse James Welch, 74, of the Big Cove Community passed away on October 12, 2020. Mr. Welch was born on April 9, 1946 in Swain County to the late Simpson and Agnes Welch. He was a Veteran of the United States Army and served in Vietnam. He spent his career as a bus driver for the Cherokee Boys Club. He was a member of Big Cove Baptist Church and was very active in the Big Cove community. He organized many Turkey Shoots to raise money for those in need and was an active member of Big Cove Free Labor. Jesse was also an avid golfer and was the first to tee off at Sequoyah National Golf Club. Jesse Welch is survived by one son, Jesse Junior Welch (Henrietta); eleven grandchildren, Junior, Sammy, Willie, Khrystyna, Annie, Frankie, Cypress, Charleigh, Rose, Kiera, and Aubrey; two sisters, Mattie Welch and Sharon Welch; seven brothers, James, Davis, Joe, Charles, Abraham, Tommy, and Mickey Welch; one aunt, Annie French and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife of thirty nine years, Frances Welch. He is also preceded in death by one daughter, Ginger Lynn Welch; one grandson, Kaleb Welch, one brother, Sam Welch and one sister, Frieda Panther. A funeral service will be held Friday, October 16, 2020 at 11:00am at Big Cove Baptist Church. Reverend Danny Conseen will officiate. Burial will follow at Junior Welch Cemetery. Jesse’s nephews will serve as pallbearers. Brothers in the Wind will escort Mr. Welch to Big Cove Baptist Church. The family will receive friends beginning at 5:00pm on Thursday, October 15, 2020. Crisp Funeral Home is assisting the Welch family with arrangements.