Betty JoAnn Morgan Welch was born on a crisp winter day, Friday, January 11th, 1952, in Talladega, Alabama, to the late Grady and Willie Mae Morgan. Betty's life was deeply rooted in her hometown of Talladega, where she grew to embody the values of family, faith, and community service instilled by her loving parents.

Her passion for education and service was matched by her ardent dedication to her church, where she served faithfully as the First Lady of Peace Missionary Baptist Church as well as Associate Minister, and a member of the Missionary Society. Educated in the foundations of Talladega County Training School, Betty pursued further learning at Talladega College and enriched her spiritual education through the Rushing Springs District Certificate of Progress Program, Rushing Springs School of Theology, and the National Baptist Convention.

Professionally, Betty was committed over the years to the Talladega County Board of Education, alongside her work at Mid America and Palm Beach.

Betty's life was filled with joyous activities and interests, including singing, baking, sewing, and playing the piano—gifts she shared generously with family, friends, and her congregation.

Betty was the loving wife of Reverend Van Tony Welch of Talladega, AL and cherished mother of two devoted daughters, Shakena Morgan of Talladega, AL and Marsha Morgan (Donald) Burr of Lincoln, AL. Her love extended to her grandchildren, Shakia Morgan, Eboni Morgan, Donarius Burr, Trevaris Morgan, and Avery Burr (Aaliyah), and further to her great-grandchildren, Anysiah Taylor, Gavin Taylor, Djiman Collins, Aston Morris, Aeson Burr, Aven Burr, Aurii and Audii Robinson.

She is survived by her dear sisters, Shirley Calhoun, Quenzella Mickens, and Jennifer McKenzie, all of Talladega, AL, and her brothers, Willie Joe (Roseanne) Morgan of Miami, FL, and Bruce (Doria) Morgan of Talladega, AL. Her memory will also be cherished by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends. Her lifelong friendship with Jeronica McGhee, whom she considered her sister, was a testament to the bond of friendship and sisterhood.

Betty JoAnn Welch, beloved matriarch, steadfast friend, and devoted community servant, departed this life on Easter Sunday, April 5th, 2026, at the age of 74. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Grady and Willie Mae Morgan; her grandson, Donarian Burr; her siblings, Charlie Morgan, Grady Morgan Jr., David Morgan, Carolyn Morgan, Pauline Jackson; her sister-in-love, Mary E. Morgan; and her brother-in-love, Charles Calhoun.

In her passing, as in her life, Betty JoAnn Welch leaves a legacy of love, faith, and an indelible mark on all who were fortunate to know her. May she rest in eternal peace and her soul find solace in the embrace of the Divine.