Dr. Paul “GenDr. Paul “Gene” Eugene Welch, 86 of Joplin, Mo., died Thursday, July 6, 2023, at Mercy Hospital, in Joplin, Mo. Born April 7, 1937, in Crestline, Gene was the son of Paul Welch and Myrtle (LaTurner) Welch. They preceded him in death.
Gene graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1954. He then went on to Fort Scott Junior College. From there he attended Kansas State College of Pittsburg. After graduating he became a coach at Fort Scott Junior College from 1964 to1965.
In 1966-1967 Gene was Superintendent at Purdy, Mo. He then was principal at Memorial High School from 1968-1969. In June 1970 he became principal of Eugene Field Elementary School in Neosho, Mo. In 1972 he received his Doctorate from Kansas University. Following that he went on to be principal at Miami High School from 1972-1974. He was then principal at Parkwood High School from 1975-1984. Gene was a 60-year member of Villa Heights Christian Church, where he taught Sunday school TNT class for 25 years.
Gene and Carol Sue Moore were united in marriage April 7, 1962, at Joplin, Mo. To this union two children were born, Robert and Paula. After the passing of Carol, Gene married Ava May (Welsh) Welch.
In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by first wife, Carol Sue Welch and second wife, Ava May Welch.
Gene is survived by his son, Robert (Leni) Welch of Webb City, Mo.; daughter, Paula Vornauf of Galena; and stepdaughter, Anita Lynn (James Ray) Highley of Grove, Okla. Grandchildren, Carol, Ian, Isaac, Lane, Micah, Raef, Addie, Austin; along with six great grandchildren also survive.
Memorial visitation will be held Monday, July 10 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Villa Heights Christian Church, in Joplin, Mo. In Lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Villa Heights Christian Church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes. com