Virginia C. Welch Obituary (1932

Virginia C. Welch February 24, 1932 - July 16, 2025 Virginia C. Welch, lovingly known as "Jean" to all who knew her, peacefully passed away on July 16, 2025, at the Cresthaven Rehabilitation Center, surrounded by the family she cherished so deeply. Born on February 24, 1932, to the late Babe and Nellie (nee Walsh) Malloy, Jean was a proud lifelong resident of South Philadelphia and a shining example of love, generosity, and faith. Jean's life was centered around her unwavering devotion to her family and her beloved church, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. She was a woman whose heart and home were always open. Her warmth was felt by all who entered her door, and her generous spirit made everyone feel like family. As the matriarch of the Welch family, Jean's presence was a guiding light. She was the devoted and loving wife of the late Joseph A. Welch Sr., her best friend and partner for an incredible 66 years. Theirs was a bond rooted in deep love and faith, and she longed to be reunited with him in Heaven. Jean was a proud and nurturing mother to Joseph Welch Jr. and Ginny (Ed) Smith. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Joseph (Jeanine) Welch III, April (Jim) Longo, Kelly (Michael) Troiano, Edward (GiGi) Smith III, Tricia (Nick) Gargon, Ginny (David) Dussell, Deidre (fiance Matthew Farrell) Welch, Megan (Mike) McGill, Sean (fiancee Quinn Bechler) Welch, and Daniel (fiancee Keeley O'Connell) Welch; 23 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. Each of them was the joy of her life, and she never missed an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments or simply spend time with them. Jean had a deep love for music and dancing, and she found joy in life's simple pleasures--especially in gathering with family, sharing stories, or enjoying a lively trip to the casino. Her faith was her foundation, and her involvement in the church brought her strength, peace, and purpose throughout her life. She is also survived by her sister Margaret Rinnier, and siblings-in-law Julia Karcher, Theresa Tobin, and Edward Welch. Jean leaves behind a legacy of love that will be carried forward by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Relatives and friends are invited to honor Jean's life on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Visitation will be held from 8:00 to 10:10 a.m. at the Murphy Ruffenach Brian W. Donnelly Funeral Home, 3rd & Wolf Streets. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. Interment will take place at New St. Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean's memory may be made to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Maintenance Fund, 2319 S. 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19148, or to The Katie Kirlin Fund, 229 Wolf St., Philadelphia, PA 19148.