Nancy J. Welch

Nancy J. Welch, 74, of Sedalia, passed away Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at her home. She was born on February 1, 1949, in Lee's Summit, MO, the daughter of Walter A. Pickard and Ella E. (Harris) Pickard and stepdaughter to Adolph Ficken, who all preceded her in death.

On May 6, 1966, in Independence, MO, she was united in marriage to Orville Leon Welch, who preceded her in death on May 1, 2022.

Nancy and Orville married at a young age and were married for over 50 years. She worked as a school bus driver for multiple school districts in the area and was the Smith-Cotton High School "lunch lady" for several years. Nancy enjoyed traveling as long as she was driving. She loved working in her yard, keeping things clean and tidy, sewing, visiting with her neighbors, and always decorating for every holiday. Nancy always loved family gatherings for the holidays. After retiring, she enjoyed spending as much time as possible with her kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids and loving on her animals.

She is survived by three children, Leon Welch, Jr. of Sedalia, Robin Ewing (Kurt) of Green Ridge, and Jason Welch (Kristy) of Blue Springs, MO; five grandchildren, Brittany (Brett), Brooklyn (Weston), Blaine, Devon (Morgan), and Adam; five great-grandchildren, Chase, Kennedy, Gemma, Enola, and Millie Jean; a brother, Joe Pickard (Patty) and family of Lee's Summit, MO; and nieces, nephews, cousins, and many neighboring friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, Nancy was preceded in death by two brothers, Johnny Lee Pickard, and Jimmy Carl Pickard.

A Celebration of Life gathering and visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 27, 2023, at Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedalia.

Burial will be at Missouri Veterans Cemetery at Higginsville, Higginsville, MO.

Pallbearers will be Weston Bailey, Brett Shoop, Devon Welch, Adam Welch, and Blaine Ewing.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sedalia Animal Shelter or Crossroads Hospice in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.