Born October 17, 1906 in Wellington, Texas, Thelma was the oldest of 12 children. Her parents were John and Janie Gray.

She was a school teacher in Texas and Arkansas having received her college degree from Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

She married Elmer Welch of Beech Grove, Arkansas in 1929. They had three children.

She was preceded in death by her husband Elmer, a son, John Welch, and her parents.

Mrs. Welch is survived by two sons, David Welch of Elgin, Illinois and Paul Welch, wife Beverly of Murray, Kentucky; 10 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 14, 2012 at 12:00 PM at Phillips Funeral Home in Paragould, Arkansas.

The family will receive visitors from 10:00 AM until the funeral hour on Saturday.

Condolences available online at www.imesmiller.com