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.
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My condolences to Van, Shekina, Marsha and family. I pray for God's loving arms of protection keep you close. Love you.
With deepest condolences and sympathy for my extended family. Thinking and Praying for each of you.
Praying for your comfort, strength and peace during y'all's sad times. Sending Love and Prayers 💘🙏
Our heart felt sympathy and prayers to Betty's family Love and peace be with you Alonzo & Shernevelyne Draper Hill🙏🏼🕊️
My beautiful Aunt Betty, your sweet laugh, your beautiful smile will be missed. We always had good conversations, and I'll forever treasure the advice that you gave me when you and Uncle T counseled me. Thank you for being you, and for being a part of my village! ❤️
God bless her family to be strong now and in the days to come.
Geralene lit a candle 🕯 in memory of Betty Welch
My Dearest sister. There will be things that trigger tears and things that bring laughter.. things that I never expected.. but they'll gently remind me of all the wonderful details that made life with you such a precious gift. Your memory is a keepsake, from which I'll never part, God has you in His keeping I have you in my heart. I miss you already sis but I know you are safe in His arms. Until we meet again. Love you. Your sis Quen
My heartfelt condolences to Van Tony Welch and family.
My sincere condolences to the Welch Family. Words can never fully express the sorrow I feel after hearing of the passing of my dear sister in CHRIST. She was truly loved and will be sorely missed. May GOD comfort your hearts so that you may treasure the wonderful memories of the time you had with her here on Earth. Love and Blessings! 🙏🏽🌺♥️🕊️
Heartfelt condolences to the Welch and Morgan families. You will remain in my prayers. Just remember to keep looking to the hills, your help is already there.
Me deepest condolences to Rev. Welch, Shakena, and Marsha as well as the entire family. My memories of Bettye goes a long way back. All wonderful memories. Her smile and laughter will always be in my memories. I love this family and always will. May God's Grace and Mercy comfort them during the days ahead and forever. Girls, always remember, God loves you and so do I.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.