Richard Girard Welch, affectionately known as "Gee", 64, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away on January 17, 2025 after an extended illness. He was born on November 19, 1960 to the late Richard Thomas Welch and Amelia Lenora Welch in Newark, New Jersey.

Richard attended Queen of Angels School in Newark, NJ, Saint Antoninus in Newark, NJ, and Essex Catholic Boys High School in Newark, NJ where he received his high school diploma in 1978.  He furthered his education at Bloomfield College and graduated in 1984. Richard was a star football player in both high school and college.

Richard was employed with Mecklenburg County District Attorney's Office and retired after over 20 years of service.

Richard was of the Christian faith and an active member of The Park Church until his health began to decline.  He was also an active member of Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship Incorporated where he would volunteer for community activities. While living in New Jersey, Richard earned a First Degree from Master Gee's Martial Arts where he also taught classes.  He was also recognized by Essex County Park Commission for completing cross country competitions and as the half mile champion.

In his free time, Richard enjoyed watching Kung Fu movies, spending time with his family and watching sports (especially his New York Giants).  His infectious laugh, impromptu dancing and magnetic personality will never be forgotten.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, Mary Jenkins, Dewey Jenkins, Gertude Strong and Linwood Welch; father-in-law, Ellis Burroughs; brother-in-law, Chester Evans; and his granddog Bootsey.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Lena M. Welch; a devoted son, Jamil (Ryann) Welch; a daughter, Jovane Hairston; three grandchildren: Jayden Welch, Jamil Welch, Jr. and Zaire Holt; a sister, Regina Evans; two brothers, Vincent (Shirley) Welch and Turhan Welch; mother-in-law, Barbara Burroughs; brother-in-law, Ellis (Fredrica) Daniels; sister-in-law Renee (Michael) Daniels-Morings; a nephew who was more like a grandson, Vincent Welch, Jr.; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members, friends, young men who he mentored and considered as sons and two granddogs, Londynn and Rari.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, January 25th at The Park Church in Charlotte, NC with family visitation at 10:00am prior to the service.