Jeanne Anne Welch, 88, of Wilmington, NC, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Hospice Center.

She was born on July 14, 1937, in Saginaw, Michigan, to Francis and Frances Gregory. Known affectionately as Jeannie, she grew up in Washington, D.C., where she graduated from St. Cecilia’s Academy. After moving to Virginia in 1967, Jeannie continued to raise her family and went on to enjoy a long career with the Virginia State ABC Board.

Jeannie was known for her sharp wit, gentle humor, and above all her beautiful smile, which could light up a room and make everyone feel loved. She carried a deep spirituality, an unfailing optimism, and will be remembered for the generous way she shared her time and her heart. She was a lifetime member of the Antique Automobile Club of America, in the Bull Run and Shenandoah Regions, where she shared her love of classic automobiles and admiration for those who restored and kept them running.

In 1981, she married Gene Welch, with whom she shared 24 years of marriage until his passing in 2005.

Jeannie is survived by her daughter, Joanne Payne, and son-in-law, Perry Payne; her grandson, Joseph Payne, and his wife, Danielle; and her sister, Mary O’Dell. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Welch, and her parents, Francis and Frances Gregory.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 12:00 noon at Omps Amherst Chapel, 1600 Amherst Street, Winchester, VA. Interment will follow at Fairview Church Cemetery, Double Church Road, Stephens City, VA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, Wilmington, NC.

She will be remembered for her laughter, her warmth, and the love she gave so freely.