Born on December 1, 1932, in Thomaston, Georgia, Benjamin was the only child of John Harvey and Hazel Keen Welch. His life was marked by an unwavering spirit, boundless love for his family, and a passion for life that inspired all who knew him.
In 1954, Benjamin married his beloved wife of sixty years, Dorothy “Dot” Lynelle Lumley Welch, and together they cultivated a relationship built on deep affection and faith. Their love was a beacon for their four daughters: Vanessa Ghelerter (Richard) of Atlantic Beach, Fl; Ginger Strickland (Stephen) of Tybee Island, Ga; Roseanne Dye (the late Robert) of Lake Asbury, Fl, and Jacqueline Biles (John) of Lake Asbury, Florida. He took great pride in being a devoted father and was delighted to witness the beauty of family grow as he became a grandfather to Adam Ghelerter (Kelcie), Anna Ghelerter (Nicholas Dalcero), Alexander Ghelerter, Hunter Biles (Jenny), and Shelby Biles (Ashten-Kekai) Gahan-Deponte. Adding to his legacy, Benjamin also became a great-grandfather to Winry and Nora Ghelerter and Rowen Biles before passing.
As a proud veteran who served in the Navy during the Korean conflict, Benjamin exemplified dedication and bravery, contributing to his country throughout his career as an aviation electronics specialist with the FAA and DOD to his final position with the Hurricane Hunters at NAS, Jax. He nurtured a deep respect for commitment to excellence which he exhibited throughout all his endeavors.
Ben possessed an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and limitless curiosity; he was an enthusiastic reader and aviation lover whose gaze often traced the flight of airplanes while his daughters played with dandelions at his feet. A natural storyteller, Ben captivated family and friends recounting the past. His passion for music, particularly big band, infused the Welch home with warmth and accompanied his storytelling moments. His interests showcased a lively personality that did not wane as he grew older. Ben and Dot dancing together or their daughters balancing on Daddy's feet while spinning around the living room will resonate cherished memories alongside the latest beloved song and adventures in his later years. From a life spent traveling both domestically and internationally to settling in Lake Asbury for retirement, he remained active, always engaged in a project until the end. He was consistently present and planning forward. For his grandchildren there was the big tree fort, custom workbenches they utilized in his workshop, fishing excursions, football games, air shows and the treasure hunts. The stories. All the stories, that steadfast hug, and his presence. He showed up.
In every interaction, he made people feel seen and heard. You knew where he stood and he was an excellent listener; when you spoke to him, you felt as if you were the only person in the room. He possessed a fantastic memory that surprised us all until his final moments, holding onto cherished recollections with unwavering clarity. A hardworking individual, he could repair almost anything and had an independent can-do spirit that showcased in all he did, bringing the same attentiveness and care to his family life.
Furthermore, he wore his Christian faith as both the foundation of his being and his guiding principle. Ben’s legacy is not only found in the lives he directly touched—the members of his beloved family—but also through the kindness and humor he shared with all around him.
As we celebrate the remarkable life of Benjamin Franklin Welch, we are reminded of his honest and tireless nature, deep devotion and love given so willingly and unconditionally. In sad but grateful remembrance, we honor his journey and a life well-lived, particularly emphasizing the numerous unforgettable travels, adventures and friendships formed, stories told, and moments cherished along the way.
A service in memory of Benjamin will take place on Sunday, Nov 24, 2024, at Holly Hill Funeral Home 3601 Old Jennings Rd, Middleburg, Fl 32068.
Viewing is 1 to 2 pm. Service at 2 pm then graveside.
In this time of sorrow and deep loss, there is solace in the knowledge that Ben’s spirit continues to soar among us, through us and to his beloved Dorothy.
