James Curley Welch, 80, of Poteau, OK, passed away, April 14, 2012, in Pocola. He was born February 29, 1932, at Poteau, OK, to Jim and Elsie (Johnson) Welch. He was a veteran of the Merchant Marines and a retired correctional officer for the Oklahoma State Department of Corrections.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and a daughter Johnetta Maynor.
James is survived by his wife Nellie Welch; two daughters, Bobbie Hull of Poteau, OK, and Michelle Harding of Wilburton, OK; a son James and wife Shila Waddle of Shady Point, OK; a brother John and wife Jo Welch of Poteau, OK; five grandchildren, Chasey Hull, Holiday Hull, Savanna Waddle, Paige Welch and Abby Harding; as well as a host of other family members, friends and loved ones.
Graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, April 17, 2012, at Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK, with Bobbie Hull and Bro. Jeff Little officiating. Interment will follow service at Oakland Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Grace Manor Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. You may leave an on-line greeting to the family at www.gracemanorfh.com