James “Robert” Welch, 86, of Plant City, died Dec. 9, 2014.
He was a deacon at Turkey Creek First Baptist Church, and he was a member of the local band, Branch Water Bluegrass Band. He loved his family, and he enjoyed farming, ranching, fishing and bluegrass music.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Polly Darley Welch; children, Bobbie Jo Hogan (William), James Welch Jr. (Frieda), Shirley Roberts (Rick), Peggy Peacock (Ricky) and Blake Welch (Michelle); sister, Marie Taylor; grandchildren, Allan, Joni, Erin, Jayme, Kim, Cory M., Ryan, Josh, Kyle, Cory W., Tommy, Daniel and Dillon; 16 great-grandchildren; and many other family and friends.
A celebration of life was held Friday, Dec. 12, at Turkey Creek First Baptist Church. Interment to follow at Hopewell Memorial Gardens, Plant City. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.