Ross Welch, 82, of Jonesboro, departed for his heavenly home January 21, 2015 at St. Bernard's Regional Medical Center. He was born September 7, 1932 in Batesville, Arkansas to the late Ross and Mabel Welch. Ross retired from Hytrol in 1998, where he worked in the maintenance department. He enjoyed visiting his co-workers, tinkering in his shed, traveling, camping and fishing. Mr. Welch loved being around his family and friends, especially when he could pull pranks on them. He was loved by all who knew him. Although his family and friends will miss him dearly, they look forward to seeing him again in their heavenly home.Preceding Ross in death were his parents; one nephew, Bob Welch; one granddaughter, Kim Smith; and several uncles.He leaves behind his wife of 34 years, Netta Nagerine Welch; children, Alan Welch of Abilene, Texas, Ken Welch and his wife, Shirl of Little Rock, Arkansas, Kerry Urbanek of Jonesboro, Arkansas, Alicia Markum of Paragould, Arkansas, Connie Bobo of Jonesboro, Arkansas; Tim McCormack of Paragould, Arkansas and Rhonda Nathey of Winter Haven, Florida; grandson, Nicholas Welch of Little Rock, Arkansas; eight other grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and one great great grandchild.The family will receive friends Sunday, January 25, 2015 from 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home. Funeal services will follow the visitation at 2:00 p.m. in the Center Hill Chapel of Phillips Funeral Home with Curtis Shatley officiating. Burial will be in Shiloh Cemetery. Lasting Memorials can be made to St. Jude's Hospital or Arkansas Children's Hospital of Little Rock.