Thomas D. Welch

Thomas D. Welch, of Dedham, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 26, 2017 at Briarwood Rehabilitation and Healthcare in Needham. He was 83 years old. Born and raised in Needham, Tom was the son of the late Thomas and Barbara (Coughlin) Welch. His father was Chief of Police in Needham for many years. Tom was a graduate of Needham High School Class of 1951, Boston University Class of 1955 and he earned his Master's Degree in Education from Boston State in 1963. He was a US Army Veteran, having served in Germany in the late 1950's. Tom spent his entire career in the Needham Public Schools as a teacher and coach at both Needham High School and Pollard Junior High. His teaching and coaching had a positive impact on his many students over the years. During the summer of those working years, he was the Director of the Beaver Country Day Camp in Chestnut Hill and joined up with a group of other school teachers to lead the campers. Tom enjoyed exploring New England with his wife, spending time on Cape Cod with family and friends and he took great pride in supporting his grandchildren in their interests and activities. Tom is survived by his wife of 60 years Martha D. (MacDonnell) Welch of Dedham, his children Janel & Ben Lasher of Norfolk, Kathleen & Dan DiIeso of Walpole, Colleen & Michael Jeffery of Attleboro and Tom & Jane Welch of Needham. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren. He was the brother of the late Jack and his wife Joyce (Burke) Welch. Visiting hours will be held in the Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Ave, Needham, on Sunday, January 29th from 2-5 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in St. Anne's Church, 90 West Milton St, Readville, on Monday January 30th at 10:00 am. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Interment is private at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your local food pantry.