John Ira Welch of Vilas passed away peacefully in his home on March 4th, 2025. Born on June 10th, 1947, in Watauga County, he was the son of Clyde Earl Welch and Mary Magdalene Welch. In order to honor his wishes, there will be a small gathering of his children and grandchildren.

John took pride in his career with Vermont American where he served over 20 years. Shortly after leaving Vermont American, he started his own business: Woodcraft Bands. While in business he valued the relationships he built with his customers and strived to put their interests first. He operated under the idea that everything he did was to the best of his ability and his objective was to do all things with honor. John was generous to all around him and worked hard to ensure this was possible. He had a love for books, movies and tv shows, especially westerns. He regularly visited the Watauga County Library to check out books and interact with the staff. He was always known for how well he dressed and presented himself and his desire to conversate with those around him. All it took was one conversation or interaction with him to see how soft, loving, and absolutely hilarious he was.

He was preceded by his father Clyde Welch, mother Mary Magdalene Welch, brother Clyde Welch Junior, his sisters Loretta Hampton and Linda Whittington. His memory will be carried on by his two daughters, Tina Welch and Heather Welch Murray and husband Dustin Murray. His sister, Sharon Childers. His grandchildren, Jacob Maltba and Kadisha Fields with her son Alex Aguero, Joseph Maltba, MacKenzie Blake and husband Alexander 'Alec' Blake, Gracee Kleeberger, Victoria Dare Cool, and David Lutabingwa.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Watauga County Library. He would want to give back to those who brought him joy and the community he loved.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.