Coach John Paul Welch

Coach John Paul Welch, beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, and coach, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on March 16, 2026. He was born on October 14, 1948, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to Cecil and Mildred Ann "Mickey" Riley Welch.

Mr. Welch was reared and received his early education in White Hall, graduating from White Hall High School in 1967. After high school, he worked for the Cotton Belt Railroad as a welder and while earning his bachelor's degree in education from Henderson State University (becoming the first person in his family to graduate from college). While earning his bachelor's degree, he proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves. This experience helped him develop the values of discipline and strength that would later define his career in education and coaching. Mr. Welch earned his master's in education from Henderson State University in 1988 and his master's in administration from the University of Central Arkansas in 1991.

Coach Welch dedicated his life to service; to his country, his students, his athletes, and most

importantly, his family. For decades, Coach Welch used his experience in the reserves to shape the lives of young men and women across Arkansas. As a health and science teacher and multi-sport coach, he served at schools in Glenwood, Strong, Carlisle, Sparkman, Hughes, Woodlawn, Smackover, Humnoke, Pine Bluff, Dollarway, and Dumas. His influence extended far beyond the scoreboard. He was a mentor who demanded the very best and believed athletics were a classroom for character. He concluded his distinguished career in education as Assistant Principal at White Hall High School, where he continued to invest in students and staff with steady leadership and unwavering care. A lifelong athlete, Coach Welch loved the game of golf. A testament to both his skill and passion, he recorded seven holes-in-one during his lifetime. In retirement, he and Gracia settled in Star City, Arkansas, to be near their grandchildren. There, he enjoyed many rounds of golf and worked proudly on his 1981 Corvette.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Mildred Welch; and his siblings, Dennis Welch (Judy) and Betty Ann Hutchinson (Will).

Survivors include his devoted wife of over 55 years, Gracia (Neikirk) Welch, his high school sweetheart and lifelong love whom he married January 5, 1971, in Rison. Their marriage was a testament to loyalty and an enduring commitment to one another. Above all, Coach Welch was devoted to his family. In addition to his wife, Gracia, he is survived by his sons: Coach John Paul Welch II (Carly), Colonel (Retired) James Welch (Jenny), and Coach Joseph Welch. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Trey, Ty, Maddie, Reagan, Kendal, Sydney, Bryce, Ava Katherine, William, Gracelynn, and Reed. Nothing brought him greater joy than watching his grandchildren grow and succeed in life.

Survivors also include his siblings, Cecilia Alexander (Bobby) and Richard Welch (Mary); and by his beloved brothers- and sisters-in-law with whom he shared a close and cherished bond, Frances Casteel (Robert), Bill Neikirk (Sonya), David Neikirk (Sherri), and Dottie Vereen (Jim), as well as his dear cousins Cadell Welch (Joyce) and Ann Brumbelow.

The family is deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Baptist Hospital and JRMC for their compassionate care, with special appreciation to Dr. Brad Jenkins for his many years of dedication and kindness.

As Scripture reminds us:

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness…"

- 2 Timothy 4:7–8

Coach Welch fought the good fight, finished his race with honor, and kept the faith.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, March 20, 2026, at Robinson and Fuller White Hall Funeral Chapel with Brother Cadell Welch officiating. Interment will follow in White Hall United Methodist Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Robinson and Fuller in White Hall.

Memorials may be made to White Hall United Methodist Church, PO Box 20880, White Hall, AR 71612.

Online register: www.RobinsonFuller.com