Joseph Melvin Welch

Joseph Melvin Welch, 71, of Benton, Arkansas passed away April 30, 2019. He was born July 13, 1947 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to the late J.J. and Mary Kathleen Welch. Joe was a member of Benton First United Methodist Church. He was a 1965 graduate of Pine Bluff High School and a 1970 graduate of the University of Arkansas. Joe was a veteran of the United States Army. He retired as a supervisor for disability determination for Social Security. Joe's passion was his children and grandchildren-he was their biggest fan. He was a talented, amateur artist. Joe was very active and enjoyed spending time outdoors riding his bike, walking the neighborhood, and kayaking. Preceding Joe in death are his parents; brother, Jimmy Welch; and sister, Peggy Welch. He leaves to cherish his memory his three children: Leah Graddy and husband Rob of Alexander, Arkansas; Matt Welch and wife Susan of Benton and Kirk Welch and wife Betsy of Benton; six grandchildren: Zachary Graddy, Emma Graddy, Brennan Welch, Maddie Welch, Sunny Welch, and Evan Welch; and extended family and friends who love Joe and will miss him always. Visitation will be held 1-2 p.m., Monday, May 6, at Benton First United Methodist Church followed by memorial service at 2 p.m. Family requests memorials be made to Autism Speaks at www.AutismSpeaks.org. Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guest registry: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.