Gary Michael Welch Sr, also known as "OG" was born in Barberton, Ohio on January 18,1952 to the late Willie and Alma Jean Welch. He graduated from Barberton High School in 1970 where he played basketball and ran track. He joined the US Army in 1972 receiving an honorable discharge in 1975. After the military he attended Kent State University.

On March 18,1978, Gary married Nona(Williams) and they were blessed with 2 sons. Gary was a devoted and loving "Papa" to his 5 grandchildren. Early in his career in Ohio he was employed at Akron General Hospital. In Georgia he was employed by Eastern Airlines, Clayton County School and Budget Rental Cars. Gary was known to his friends as OG. OG entertained friends and strangers with jokes and laughter! He treasured his friendship with Charles, Ron, Will, "G", Thomas and his spiritual friend Pastor Beverly and her grands! He had a special bond with his sister Louise, Janice and his brother Tony. Nona is going to miss watching cowboy movies and NBA, MLB, NFL and track & field with him. Especially their family time on vacations and holidays with their sons, daughter in laws and grandchildren and friends.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents Willie and Jean Welch, sisters Betty Welch King, Carol Ann Byrd, brother Robert Williams, sister in law Amanda Welch, grandparents John and Artie Shipp and Stephen and Carrie Welch.

Gary will forever be cherished by his wife Nona Welch, sons Gary "Turk" Welch (Shivon) Marcus Welch (Tiana), grandchildren Janayah, Jada, Denim, Chase, Hunter, Gianna and Kingston. Sisters Phyllis Welch, Carrie Louise Welch and Janice (Allen) Chambers, brothers Willie Welch, Leonard Welch, Rodney Welch, Anthony (Yvonne) Welch, sister in law, Janet Williams, sister in law. special friends and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

We are really going to miss him but are comforted in knowing his presence with God.