Merrill Steven Welch, age 82, resident of Collierville, Tennessee and husband of Bonnie Baker Welch, departed this life, Thursday, June 6, 2024 at Baptist Reynolds Hospice House in Collierville, Tennessee.
Steve was born December 5, 1941, in Grasmere, New Hampshire, to Arthur E and Avelda Riehl Welch. His love of adventure and of the sea called him and he joined the United States Navy after high school. He met the love of his life while stationed at Quonset Point Naval Air Station in Kingston, Rhode Island. After being reassigned to Millington Naval Air Station in Millington, Tennessee, he and Bonnie married and settled in Tennessee. Steve graduated from the University of Memphis with a major in Education. He taught United States History and Government in the Memphis City School system until his retirement.
Mr. Welch is survived by Bonnie, his wife of 59 years, his sister, Nancy Zeller of Vancouver, Canada, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
As per his wishes, Steve will be buried at sea. The memorial service will be private. The family requests that memorials be directed to a charity of the donor's choice.
