Mary Welch

Mary Frances Welch, 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 8, 2021.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, November 13, 2021 at 11:00 AM at the Elmwood Memorial Park, 5750 US HWY 277 S., Abilene, TX. Visitation will be held Friday, November 12, 2021 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Elmwood Funeral Home.

Frances was born on February 5, 1936 in Abilene, Texas to the late George C. Sewell and Annie Mae Sewell (Power). Frances shared her life for over 65 years with her late husband James E. Welch. They were inseparable.

Frances was a lifelong resident of Abilene. With the passing of James, Frances moved to Mansfield, Texas where she lived at the Isle of Watercrest, enjoying new friends and experiences. She was a loving wife, mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Frances loved afternoon drives and attending local sporting events, regardless of the sport. She would play board games and dominoes at a moment's notice, one of her favorites was chicken-foot. Over the years she collected song-bird figurines, her all-time favorite though was her owl collection of all sizes and shapes.

Frances was devoted to her family and friends. She cherished those friendships, many lasting over 60-years. She was a member of Southside Church of Christ for over 70-years and most recently Westgate Church of Christ.

Frances was proceeded in death by her two brothers, George and Joe Sewell, and her sister Wanda Offutt.

Survivors include her sons, Kenneth Welch (Sherry) of Mansfield; Jeff Welch (Robyn) of Sonora; grandchildren Matthew Welch (Megan) of Mansfield, Shannon McCallum (Matt) of San Diego; Eric Welch of Abilene, Brady Welch (Maddie) of Tyler, Rae McFerrin (Zach) of Abilene, Abby Bennie of Sonora; and four great-grandchildren.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial may be made in France's honor to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center.