Debra Barbara Welch

Debra Barbara Grubbs Welch (Debbie) passed away on November 30, 2023, after an extended battle with ovarian cancer. She was 74 years old. Debbie was predeceased by her parents, Captain Floyd Fletcher Grubbs and Sargeant Blanche Grubbs; her husband, Donald Welch (Don); and her brother, Walter Grubbs. She is survived by her sister, Mary Ann Grubbs Fox and her husband Ed; her brother-in-law, David Welch; her son, Brian Welch and his wife Brenda; her son, Jeremy Welch and his wife Angel; 3 grandchildren (Kate, Kelsie and Jakob); 4 nieces and nephews; and 10 grandnieces and grandnephews.

Growing up with military parents, Debbie lived in various places including Japan, California, Richlands, VA, Camp Pickett (VA), and Fort Monroe (VA). Throughout her married life with Don, she raised a family in Newport News, VA, and Roanoke, VA. Don's work took them to Louisville, KY and Culpepper, VA. In retirement, Debbie and Don settled in Oak Island, NC. Debbie was dutifully involved with the Elks Lodge in Oak Island, forming friendships and relationships that were very special to her. She became the first female Exalted Ruler for the Oak Island Elks Lodge. She also spent her time enjoying family and friends as often as she could. Conversation with loved ones was her favorite pastime.

While Debbie's family grieves for her loss, they are choosing to remember her in a way that honors her spirit. Her family will hold a Celebration of Life at the Elks Lodge in Oak Island on a future date shortly after the new year. More details on the service will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the SECU Hospice House of Brunswick in Bolivia, NC.