Joseph Clarence Welch

Joseph (Joe) Clarence Welch, 63, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, formerly of Atlanta, Georgia, died peacefully and unexpectedly, in his sleep, February 25, 2026, at his home.

Joe was born January 31, 1963, in Atlanta, Georgia, son of Audley and Emilie Welch. He moved to Norfolk, Virginia, in 1994. Virginia became his home, but "Georgia was always on his mind!"

After graduating Shamrock High School, class of '81, Chamblee, Georgia, Joe attended DeKalb Community College, class of '83. A true Atlanta patriot, he supported everything Georgian – faithfully rooting for the home teams – whether Falcons, Hawks, Braves or his beloved Ga. Bulldogs. Go Dawgs!

Joe was friendly, well versed on a large variety of subjects. He never met a stranger, always up for a cookout and conversation (especially if they included crab legs, world famous Varsity hot dogs, '70s music or anything sports.) Those whose lives were encouraged by his zest for life were blessed indeed.

Dear to Joe's heart were his Daughter and Son- Chelsea and Spencer, Son-In-Law- Jesse, Grandchildren- Ava, Landon, Griffin and Willow. He fiercely loved his family, bragging on them to everyone who would listen – as reflected in his FB posts showing photos of their latest achievements and adventures. He will forever be remembered, lovingly cherished by his children as the "Best Dad and Coach" anyone could ask for and by his grandchildren as the "World's Greatest Pah-Pah."

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 7, 2026, 10:00 a.m. at Altmeyer Funeral Home, Rouse Drive in Virginia Beach.