John Thomas Welch Jr

John Thomas Welch, Jr. "Tommy", age 81 passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025.
Tommy was born on December 9, 1943, in Pensacola, Florida. Tommy graduated from Escambia High School in 1962. He went on to play basketball at Pensacola Junior College before earning his bachelor's degree at Florida State University. He later earned a master's degree from Mississippi College. Tommy was a dedicated PE teacher, basketball and golf coach at Escambia High School for 30 years and understood the role of physical activity in an individual's overall health and well-being.
Tommy met the love of his life, Nancy, at a basketball game in 1970. They were married in 1972 and enjoyed fishing, golfing, and traveling together throughout their marriage. Tommy has one daughter, Leigh Anne Wingate (Andy), and two granddaughters, Loren and Arden. He rarely missed one of his granddaughter's golf matches or soccer games. Tommy also has a sister, Ann Gilman (Ed) of New Port Richey.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John Thomas Welch, Sr. and Lena Welch as well as his sister, Patricia Smith.
Private funeral services are under the direction of Lewis Funeral Home in Milton. In lieu of flowers, friends are encouraged to support your local blood bank. Tommy was a dedicated blood donor for many years.
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