November 8, 1940 – August 7, 2024
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Shirley Frances Welch, 83.
Shirley Frances peacefully passed away at home on August 7, 2024, after an extended illness. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, wife, sister and friend, who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Born on November 8, 1940, in Speedwell, Tennessee, to her parents Troy Dunn and Louise Dunn, Shirley transitioned to her heavenly home surrounded by her loving family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Louise Copeland (Emmett) and Troy Dunn (Velma), and her husbands, Charles Jimmy Woods, Bill Pennycuff, and Dan Welch.
Shirley is survived by her brother: Jackie Dunn of Middlesboro, Ky, sister: Stephanie Dunn-Lloyd of Birmingham, AL, children: Jimmy Woods (Laura) of Florence, SC; Lisa Hall of Tazewell, TN; Tony Woods (Janet) of Johnson City, TN; and Rhonda Greene (Johnathan) of Sneedville, TN.
She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Hannah Woods, Lauren Keller (Brad), Lindsey Cope (Drew), Chandra Hickman (Thomas), Xavery Hall, Isaiah Hall, Lane Hall, Jason Woods (Emily), Adam Woods, Natasha Trent, Kendall Mink (Bobby), Seth Greene (Kaci), and Haylee Lamons (Brent). Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Keller, Chloe Key, Waylon Hickman and Colton Mink.
Shirley grew up in Speedwell, Tennessee, with a brief stay in Detroit, Michigan. She attended Powell Valley Schools and graduated from Powell Valley High School, where she was a member of the varsity basketball team. A devout member of Carr's Chapel Baptist Church in Speedwell, Shirley attended and served faithfully until her health no longer allowed. Frances made her home in Speedwell, TN and lived there most of her life.
Frances was a kind and generous soul, always placing others' needs before her own. Her love and compassion touched everyone she met, and she never knew a stranger. She was always eager to share her testimony and will be remembered for her nurturing spirit and unwavering love for her children and grandchildren.
During her working years, Shirley ran a cake business and became well-known in the area for her beautiful wedding and birthday cakes. She was also a dedicated employee at Middlesboro Appalachian Regional Hospital, where she retired after more than 20 years of service. Shirley was known as a hard worker who was always ready to help and make sure that things were done right.
After retirement, Shirley enjoyed cooking, working puzzles, watching TV, gardening, and spending time with her furry friends, Benji and Bo. She also loved traveling across the United States with her husband, Dan Welch. However, her greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Coffey Chapel in Harrogate, TN, with the funeral service immediately following at 2:00 p.m. Graveside services will take place afterward at Oddfellows Cemetery in Duff, TN.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Breast Cancer Foundation in honor of Frances, a proud breast cancer survivor.
Rest in peace, dear mother. You will forever be in our hearts and memories. We will always stay together, work together, and love each other just as you wished.
