Woodrow Welch Jr

A Life Remembered

Woodrow “Woody” Welch Jr

Woodrow “Woody” Welch Jr. was born on March 12, 1950, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Eva and Woodrow Welch Sr. He was their second-born child.

As a young child, Woody was baptized at Gethsemane Baptist Church, where he helped prepare for services by setting up tables and chairs. As a teenager, he enjoyed dancing and took great care in maintaining his appearance, often spending hours polishing his shoes and ironing his clothes to look his best.   

Woody graduated from Thomas Edison High School in 1969. After graduation, he worked as a custodian and later retired from LTV Steel.

Woody enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He loved spending time with his beloved partner, Ariane Whitley, attending family gatherings, and relaxing with a cold beer.

Woody never hesitated to speak his mind, whether pointing out when someone had gained weight or saying aloud what others were likely thinking. His straightforward personality and sense of humor made every moment with him memorable.

On Friday, September 26, 2025, Woody passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his beloved partner, Ariane.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eva and Woodrow Welch Sr., and two siblings, Yvonne Montgomery and Dennis Welch.

Woody leaves to cherish his memory, his life partner, Ariane Whitley; children, Derrick Pearson of Birmingham, Alabama, Eric Battle and Aaliyah Whitley, both of Cleveland, Ohio; sisters, Elaine Miller, Judy Welch, Francine (Frank) Kennan, and Denise (Willie) Sims, all of Cleveland, Ohio; 15 grandchildren; and a host of nephews, nieces, and cousins.

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