Gareth Welch of Pensacola, FL, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
What you read below is one part of a life lived with quiet purpose.
Gareth held deeply to the Baptist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
What is held in faith is rarely lost.
Gareth Welch, 94, of Pensacola, Florida, passed away on April 8, 2026, after a long illness. Born on February 15, 1932, in Florence County, South Carolina, Gareth lived a full and remarkable life defined by service, family, and a genuine love for the people around him.
Gareth enlisted in the military in 1950 and served his country with distinction for over two decades, retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1972. His service spanned both the Korean and Vietnam wars, and the dedication he brought to his military career earned him deep respect from all who served alongside him. Known as a skilled supervisor, Gareth was intelligent, friendly, and engaging, always ready with an answer to your question and always willing to lend a hand.
During his last tour of duty at Hurlburt Field AFB, Gareth and his family fell in love with the Florida panhandle. After retirement, he and his wife Shelby eventually resettled in Pensacola to spend his retirement years enjoying the coastal lifestyle. And enjoy it he did. Gareth was happiest with a fishing rod in his hand, a boat on the water, or heading out for a day of hunting. He was a member of Ray's Chapel Baptist Church and stayed active in the local historical society, always curious about the world around him.
Gareth is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Shelby Jean Welch; his sons, Gareth Daniel Welch (Debbie) and Robert Allen Welch; and his daughter, Kelly Welch Ashley (Don); grandchildren Melanie, Steven, Ashley, Bonnie, and Gareth.; great grandchildren Ian, Bella, and Luke. Gareth is proceeded in death by his parents, 5 brothers and 1 sister.
He now rests in the peace and grace of his Lord and Savior.
Family and friends are invited to meet at Olive Baptist Church, Warrington Campus, at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 8th, to be escorted on board Pensacola NAS. A ceremony with full military honors will take place at Barrancas National Cemetery at 10:00 a.m.
