Obituary of Mary Elizabeth (Lisa) Welch

Mary Elizabeth (Lisa) Bates Welch, 66, died peacefully at her home with her beloved and devoted husband, Jay Welch, by her side on January 21, 2024. Lisa was born in Harlan County to the late Ina and Sam Bates on October 20, 1957. Lisa was a graduate of the University of Kentucky, received her masters in education at Union College, and earned her counselor certification from Eastern Kentucky University. She taught second grade in the Middlesboro school system and was a guidance counselor at Brookside Elementary in Nicholasville. She was also a member of Christ Church Cathedral in Lexington.  

In addition to her husband of 37 years, Jay Welch, Lisa is survived by her brother, Jim (Reva) Bates, of Greenwood Indiana; her sister, Shirlee Bates; sister in law, Alice (Jim) Maddox; mother in law, Jenna Welch; nieces and nephews, Bill ( Kim) Bates, Landry (Rachelle) Bates, Sherri Bates (Ken) Miller, Bert Maddox, Blake Maddox, and Meridith Maddox (Breck) Gibbs; a dear family friend Norma Ruble, and several great nieces and nephews.  

In addition to her parents, Lisa was preceded in death by her brother, Jack Bates.  

A graveside service will be held at Rest Haven Cemetery in Harlan, Kentucky on Friday, January 26, 2024 at 2pm. 

Lisa always gave any venture her full commitment and at age 59, Lisa discovered the joy of running. She completed four Iron Horse half marathons and then proudly completed the full Monumental Marathon in Indianapolis in 2017. 

Lisa was a passionate dog lover. In honor of Lisa, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Lexington Humane Society, 1600 Old Frankfort Pike, Lexington, KY 40504. Jay wishes to thank the Bluegrass Care Navigators (Bluegrass Hospice) and Lisa's nurse Terri Hooker, RN for her steadfast commitment to Lisa's care. To honor Lisa's memory, contributions may also be made to Bluegrass Care Navigators.