Rev. Mr. Theodore Buchannon Welsh Jr.'s Obituary
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Rev. Mr. Theodore (Ted) Welsh, Jr., at his home on February 26, 2025. He was born January 8, 1941, in East Orange, New Jersey to Theodore and Doris Stanley Welsh, Sr.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Theodore Welsh, Sr. and Doris Stanley Welsh, brother, David Stanley Welsh, and brother-in-law, James McIlvain.
Those left behind to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 56 years, Carol E. Welsh, children, Gregory Thomas (Crystal) Welsh, Carrie (Rob) Suchman, Joann (Jon) Hoye, Mary (JP) Culley, and Paul Theodore Welsh, grandchildren, Louie Culley, Deandra Welsh, and Joseph Hoye, a multitude of nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind a loving, devoted church family at St. Joseph Catholic Church where he served as a permanent deacon since 1985.
His passion as a deacon was serving the incarcerated men at the local prisons. He worked tirelessly to help those transitioning from incarceration back into society, assisting both financially and personally helping to make sure their physical and spiritual needs were met.
Ted could always be found behind the camera snapping photos of family and friends or recording countless videos of special occasions. He had a particular passion for filming trains where his grandson, Louie, would frequently join him. Their shared interest in trains created an indelible bond between grandfather and grandson. He dabbled in amateur filmmaking and created hundreds of short films and videos which he shared with family and friends. He was a prolific reader and enjoyed non-fiction, especially topics surrounding current events. When relaxing he loved to walk, but the mountain trails of East Tennessee were among his favorite escapes. Ted and Carol would take several trips a year to enjoy the beauty and peace of nature. He also enjoyed family trips to Panama City Beach packed full of adventure and fun.
Ted graduated from St. Vincent Prep school in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, in 1957 and later attained an associate's degree from the University of Pittsburgh. During his time in Pittsburgh, Ted became a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He loved cheering them on from his favorite armchair or the stadium stands where he attended Superbowl IX in 1975, where the Steelers became Superbowl champions. He could often be found wearing his Steelers necktie on Sundays at church in solidarity with his team.
Ted proudly served in the special forces 101st airborne division with the US Army for 5 years. After leaving his military career, professionally, he was an entrepreneur and owned several businesses. Most notably, he was the owner operator of Welsh Disposal Service for over 40 years and was assisted by his family in this venture.
Ted was an amazing husband, father, and grandfather. His adventurous and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His constant, enduring faith will remain a guiding beacon as we remember this special man who gave so much and asked so little of those around him.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The St. Joseph Greater Heights Capital Campain: https://saintjosephschoolnashville.org/capital-campaign/
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