Richard T. Welsh

Master Sergeant Richard T. Welsh, USAF (Ret) passed away peacefully on December 16, 2011. Dick was born in Holyoke, Massachusetts on July 31, 1946, and graduated from Holyoke High School in 1965. Upon graduation he enlisted into the United States Air Force and was trained as an aircraft radio repairman. He served in Ohio, Vietnam, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Germany and back to Mississippi. He retired as a Master Sergeant with awards and decorations including an Air Force Commendation and a Meritorious Service Medal. A graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in Computer Science, he enjoyed several years with Raytheon, teaching with several school districts and operating his own computer consulting business. Dick loved to play golf and participate in the local Mardi Gras clubs. They were very important to him. He had membership in the Hibernia. Krewe of Neptune, and his favorite, Les Cavaliers. He was also a member of the local Elks Lodge #2501 where he had many fond experiences. Dick's journey was blessed with many friends who saw him as a true friend. His presence was strong and clear. He was quick witted, had a great smile, and lived each day with a positive casual attitude. He truly was the definition of tough and tender. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lorraine Welsh. Survivors include his son, Richard, sisters, Maureen (Ethier), Kathy, brothers, William, Robert and Michael and scores of friends that knew and loved him. The family would like you to join them in celebrating Dick's journey. Visitation will be on Wednesday, December 21, 2011, from 11 am until 12 noon, with a 12 noon chapel service, all at the Ocean Springs Chapel of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Biloxi National Cemetery with full military honors. The family wishes to thank the fine folks at Ocean Springs Hospital and the Ocean Springs Nursing Center for their love and compassion for Dick. In lieu of flowers the family would like donations to go to http://www.soberrecovery.com. The Ocean Springs Chapel of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.