Deborah "Debbie" Jean

Welch

Deborah “Debbie” Jean Welch, 71, of Buckeye Lake, passed away, Monday, November 9, 2026 at Fairfield Medical Center. She was born May 24, 1955 in Columbus to Charles and Yvonne (Barthelmas) Fortner.

Debbie graduated from Bexley High School in 1973. She retired from Schwebel Baking Company. She found joy in watching the hummingbirds that visited her yard and tending to her beloved flower garden. Family was the center of Debbie’s life, and she was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and daughter. She had a heart that always made room for others, keeping her door open and welcoming everyone with warmth and kindness. She also had a special love for animals, which brought her much happiness throughout her life.

She is survived by her children, Anthony (Katherine) Welch, Julia Welch and Christopher Welch; grandchildren, Austin (Brooke), Brandon (Karen), Emily (Ryan), Destiny, Tagert (Alissa), Patrick, Scotty, Rileigh and Christopher Jr.; eight great grandchildren; her father, Charles Herman Fortner; sister, Kathleen (Joe) Wayne; brother, Michael (Diane) Fortner; three nephews; and one niece.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Claude William Welch; mother, Yvonne Fortner; grandmother, Ruth Barthelmas and mother, Linda Fortner.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 21, 2026 at Cornerstone Baptist Church, 215 E. Broadway St., New Lexington, OH 43764 where a reception with food will follow.