James J. Welch

James J. "Jim" Welch, 65, of Canton, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife and daughters, after a courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia.

Born in Manchester, New Hampshire, Jim was the youngest of four siblings raised by their devoted mother, Mary (McLaughlin) Welch. He is predeceased by his father, Thomas Welch, his brother Tom, and sister Sharon.

Jim's journey through life was marked by his unwavering loyalty to family, friends, and community. He graduated from Trinity High School in 1977, where he met his soulmate, Sharon (Testa) Welch, and their lifelong love story began . They married on July 15, 1978, and a week later Jim began his career with New England Telephone Company, where he dedicated over three decades of service. His leadership as vice president and steward of the Local IBEW union was a testament to his commitment to his colleagues and the values he held dear.

Jim and Sharon moved to Portsmouth, New Hampshire in 1986, where they made a loving home for their daughters and became admired members of their Seacoast community. Jim was a dedicated coach for Shamrock football and an active supporter of Portsmouth sports. He was a gentle giant, fondly known for his quick Irish wit and famous bear hugs. He found immense joy in riding his Harley and playing golf. His legendary hole-in-one, which won him a Buick he affectionately named HOLIN1, was a story he loved to share. He cherished the bond he shared with his brother, Tom, spending countless hours together at horse shows, and tailgating for Pats games in the cold New England weather.

After retiring, Jimmy and Sharon embraced a new chapter, splitting their time between Hampton Beach, NH, and Barefoot Bay, FL. They spent a year traveling the east coast in their food truck "Porky's", selling the best chicken tenders around. Hampton Beach became their summer home, sharing countless memories at "Camp Welch" around the campfire, together with family and friends. They ultimately moved to Barefoot Bay full time, where they enjoyed cruising the Bay in their golf cart, and a cold beer at Captain Hirams for happy hours with friends. While in Florida, Jim founded his successful business, Shamrock Home Inspections, which gave him great pride. In 2019, they returned to New England, relocating to Connecticut to be closer to their daughters and grandchildren.

Family was the cornerstone of Jim's life. A devoted husband to Sharon for 46 wonderful years, he was a pillar of strength and love for his daughters, Erin Garcia (Frank) of Staten Island, NY, Amy Lombardo (Chris) of Simsbury, CT, and Kaleigh Welch of Canton, CT. His grandchildren, Keira and Dylan Garcia, and Ellie James Lombardo, were the light of his life, and he took immense pride in being their Bumpa and watching them grow. His family was the center of his world, and his legacy of love and devotion will continue to inspire them.

Jim is also survived by his sister, Kathleen Bouffard (Peter) of Naples, FL.; sisters-in-law, Carolyn (Michael) Ortisi of Cumming, GA, Roberta (Paul) Harty of Manchester, NH, and Diane (Brian Williams) Lototski of Chester, NH; many nieces and nephews who loved their Uncle Jimmy; and countless friends and loved ones.

A private family memorial will be held on December 7, 2024, with a celebration of life planned for June 2025 in New Hampshire. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association. The family would like to express their gratitude to the team at Accentcare Hospice for their gracious and kind care for Jim in his final days.

Jim will be remembered for his kindness, his strength, and his unwavering loyalty to those he loved. His life was a testament to the power of love, family, and community, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.