Candace Martina "Candy" Welch

Candace Martina Welch, nee Kinnaman, known affectionately as "Candy" to those close to her, departed this life on May 23, 2024, at the age of 54, in her hometown of Columbus, Ohio.

Born in Columbus to Keeawanna Kay Bright and Herbert E Kinnaman jr, she grew up attending Linden Elementary School District and attended Gahanna Lincoln High School. Further marking her commitment to education, she earned her High School Diploma through an adult diploma program accredited by the Ohio Board of Education also earning a phlebotomy technician license in 2016 at the age of 47.

Candy carried out her career with dedication, initially serving at the Franklin Park Conservatory Member Services for over eight years. Subsequently, she devoted over 11 years to the Department of Job and Family Services in various capacities. Ill health led her to retirement, yet she remained active, immersing herself in activities close to her heart.

Family was the cornerstone of Candy's life. A loving and nurturing mother, she always placed her children's needs ahead of her own. She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, be it through music-relishing the tunes of the '80s and country artists-or through the tranquility of hobbies such as diamond painting and fishing. Tom Cruise films were a particular favorite, often making movie nights a cherished family tradition.

Candy's personal interests were as vibrant as her personality. She amassed an exquisite collection of vinyl records, Fenton glass bells, Precious Moments figurines, and porcelain dolls. Her love for butterflies and hummingbirds was yet another testament to her appreciation for nature's delicate beauties.

Predeceased by her grandparents Martha A. and Homer F. Stuller, fathers Herbert E. Kinnaman Jr. and stepfather Robert H. Bright, Aunt Kelie S. Bowen as well as ex-husband Roy L. (Beth) Mullins, Candy's legacy endures through her surviving family. Her mother, Keeawanna Kay Bright, fiancé James "Jimmy" E. St.Cin Jr., children Alisha Danielle Mullins/Lawrence (Casey Lovely), Joseph Allen (Amanda) Kinnaman, and Selena Marie Welch (Amanda Jones), along with five grandchildren Aaliyah Andreah Lawrence, Joseph Allen Kinnaman jr, Brooklyn Mariah Lawrence, Kailynne Renee Kinnaman, Ronald Tyler Davidson Jr, her brother Richard (Tina) Stuller of Independance, Missouri, sisters Tracie R. Bright Pataskala and Ashley Nicole Bright Marion Sister In Laws Cheryl St.cin Columbus , Debbi St.Cin Port St. Lucie Florida nieces Heather Renee Shifflet, Lexi (Kyle) Yowell of independence, Missouri Kodie St.Cin Chillicothe nephews Levi(Alysia) Shifflet, Robert lee Sullivan, Austin Stuller Independance, Missouri, Austin St.cin and Camden St.Cin extended family, will carry her memory forward.

A memorial service honoring Candace Martina Welch will be observed on Friday, June 7th, 2024, from 5 pm to 7 pm at Shaw Davis Funeral Home, 34 West 2nd Ave, Columbus, Ohio. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in commemoration of Candy's life. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Shaw Davis Funeral Home to honor Candy's memory.

Candace "Candy" Welch leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories that will continue to inspire and comfort all those she touched. Her spirit, like the melodies she adored, will resonate forevermore.