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In Memory of
Merrell R.
Welch
Welch
1939 - 2023
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Obituary for Merrell R. Welch
Obituary
Merrell Ray Welch, a lifelong resident of Nyack New York was called home to glory on January 10, 2023, at the age of 83.
Ray was born on January 31, 1939, to Lover and Josie Welch in Ashburn Alabama. In 1957, after graduating from Nyack High school, he started his professional career at the Gannett News (now known as the Journal News).
On July 30, 1961, Ray married Geneva his high school sweetheart in Calvary Baptist Church. Ray was a devoted father. Ray was a very spiritual man, a faithful and committed member of Calvary Baptist Church for 48 years where he served as a Trustee Board member under the leadership of Rev. Howard and a Choir member/musician. Ray also had his own band/group known as the Ray Welch Singers Gospel Group which performed at various churches and venues.
Once retired he spent his time with friends at the Apollo 12 Social Club where he was Founder and part-owner. Ray loved to exercise by walking at his favorite place, the Palisades Mall. He would often take advantage of a shopping opportunity while walking the mall. Ray loved landscape and nature and was often spotted in Nyack Memorial Park by the river playing his guitar. Ray was also a devoted supporter of HAAC.
Ray was predeceased by his father Lover and mother Josie, twin brothers James and John. He is survived by his wife of 61 years Geneva (Liz) Welch, son Merrell Ray Welch Jr., Sister-In-Law Barbara (James), Godchildren: LaShauna Kee and Leonard Blair, Baby Sister Michelle Blair, lifelong friend and Confidant Virginia Norfleet, a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Ray's memory to Haverstraw African American Connection PO Box 756 Haverstraw, NY 10927.
Merrell Ray Welch, a lifelong resident of Nyack New York was called home to glory on January 10, 2023, at the age of 83.
Ray was born on January 31, 1939, to Lover and Josie Welch in Ashburn Alabama. In 1957, after graduating from Nyack High school, he started his professional career at the Gannett News (now known as the Journal News).
On July 30, 1961, Ray married Geneva his high school sweetheart in Calvary Baptist Church. Ray was a devoted father. Ray was a very spiritual man, a faithful and committed member of Calvary Baptist Church for 48 years where he served as a Trustee Board member under the leadership of Rev. Howard and a Choir member/musician. Ray also had his own band/group known as the Ray Welch Singers Gospel Group which performed at various churches and venues.
Once retired he spent his time with friends at the Apollo 12 Social Club where he was Founder and part-owner. Ray loved to exercise by walking at his favorite place, the Palisades Mall. He would often take advantage of a shopping opportunity while walking the mall. Ray loved landscape and nature and was often spotted in Nyack Memorial Park by the river playing his guitar. Ray was also a devoted supporter of HAAC.
Ray was predeceased by his father Lover and mother Josie, twin brothers James and John. He is survived by his wife of 61 years Geneva (Liz) Welch, son Merrell Ray Welch Jr., Sister-In-Law Barbara (James), Godchildren: LaShauna Kee and Leonard Blair, Baby Sister Michelle Blair, lifelong friend and Confidant Virginia Norfleet, a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Ray's memory to Haverstraw African American Connection PO Box 756 Haverstraw, NY 10927.
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