Deborah Welch, 69

Deborah Welch, 69, of Madisonville, KY, passed away Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Baptist Health Deaconess in Madisonville, surrounded by her family. She was born on October 24, 1956, in Gary, IN to the late Arthur Ashby and Eleanor Dombrowski Ashby. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Danny Ashby and Lee Ashby. Deborah was the owner of Miss Willy’s Antiques in Hanson, KY. She and her husband, Richard, were big Hobart Jaycees members and were always involved in what events they were holding and having fun while being apart of it. She had a big heart and loved helping those in need. In addition, she enjoyed holidays and loved decorating for each one, with Christmas and Halloween being her favorite. She was also a collector of the past who felt the need to preserve and protect it from being forgotten. Her favorite things to collect were antique jewelry and all things vintage and antique. When she wasn’t out collecting, she could be seen outside in her garden with her flowers and spending time with her family, who was always there for her and loved her unconditionally. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Rick Welch of Madisonville; daughter, Ryann Welch of Madisonville; son, Jesse Welch of Kansas; sister, Linda Dombraskus of Illinois; and three grandchildren, Ellyott Westerfield, Emory Westerfield, and Camden Westerfield. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at Christ the King Catholic Church with Father Steve Hohman officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until service time at the church.