Elizabeth Ellen Welch

Elizabeth Ellen (Simpson) Welch, 80, passed away on October 28, 2026, in Chanute, Kansas. She was born on August 12, 1946, in Yates Center, Kansas, to Jess and Phyllis Simpson.

She was united in marriage to Richard Lee Welch on March 21, 1963, in Chanute, Kansas, where their journey of love and life began.

Elizabeth will be remembered most for the deep love she gave to her family. Raising her children brought her great joy, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren meant more to her than anything. Family was truly her pride and joy. She also found happiness in cooking and baking, caring for those she loved in the warm and familiar ways that made a house feel like home.

Her faith was a guiding and steady presence throughout her life. Elizabeth was very involved in her church, adored her Lord and Savior, and loved reading her Bible every day. She was secure in her relationship with the Lord and looked forward to Heaven and to seeing her husband again, a hope that gave her peace.

She is survived by her children, Jeffery Welch and his wife Sherry, James Welch and his wife Glenda, Gregory Welch and his wife Bonnie, Cindy Spencer and her husband Larry, and Tamara Leon and her husband Paul. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Garrett Welch; Haley Shelton, and Kristy Washington; Heather Welch, Jon Welch, Adam Welch, Ben Welch, Joe Welch, Trina Smith, Tailor Dyke, Aaron Ayers, Bryce Leon, and Sergio Leon, as well as several great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, Howard Simpson and Donnie Simpson, and by her sister, Barbara Sigler.

Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband Richard, her brother Steven, her grandson Larry Spencer Jr., and her granddaughter Shaley Leon.

Those who knew Elizabeth will remember a woman of devotion, warmth, and enduring faith. Her love for her family, her care for others, and her trust in the Lord will remain a lasting blessing to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Memorials are suggested to Highland Avenue United Brethren Church and can be left with or mailed to the funeral home.

The family will greet friends on November 5, 2026, starting at 10:00 a.m., followed by an 11:00 a.m. Celebration of Life Memorial Service at Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Ave, Chanute, Kansas.