Richard J. Welsh

Richard J. Welsh, of Huntingdon Valley, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was 71 years old. Rich, as he was known by his family and friends, was born in Philadelphia on September 1, 1954 to the late Richard and Marybelle (née Cathers) Welsh. He is survived by his wife Theresa L. (née Neusidl) Welsh and together they shared 42 years of marriage.
Rich attended James Sullivan Elementary school in Philadelphia. He then attended Walter B. Saul High School of Agricultural Sciences, also in Philadelphia. Guided by a strong sense of duty and patriotism he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1972. In 1973 he joined the Military Police Unit and was promoted to Corporal before being honorably discharged in 1978. Rich then went on to dedicate 36 years to the Philadelphia gas works where he worked in various departments.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Rich will be remembered for his infectious smile and his remarkable gift for storytelling, complete with sound effects, animated expressions, and laughter that filled every room. An avid outdoorsman and hunter, he found great solace in nature and cherished his time spent in the mountains, tending to what he lovingly called his "little piece of heaven." Ever industrious, he enjoyed woodworking, yardwork, and any project that kept him busy-sitting still was never in his nature.
Above all, Rich's greatest joy was his family. He nurtured a loving and close knit family. He is survived by his wife, Theresa, and their children: Katharine E. Alekna (James), Richard J. Welsh (Kristen), and William J. Welsh (Ann Marie). He was the proud grandfather of Ainsley, Lorelei, and Everleigh Alekna; Ava and Logan Welsh; and Lucy and William Welsh. Rich is also survived by his sisters, Linda Cernovsky and Paula Jacobs.
Rich will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His unwavering strength, warm spirit, and boundless love leave a legacy that will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
How lucky we are to have had something that makes saying goodbye so hard.
Relatives and friends are invited to Rich's Life Celebration on Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. followed by his memorial service at 2:00 p.m. at St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1530 Augsburg Dr. Hilltown, PA 18927.
Family services are entrusted to the Craft-Givnish Life Celebration Home, 215-659-2000.