Mrs. Frances Welch, 94, of Mt. Croghan, SC passed away on Sunday, February 25, 2024 while surrounded by her loving family.

Maxine was the only daughter of Tom and Lola Chilton of Bennett, NC. She was preceded in death by her mother, father and husband of 67 years, Joseph "Ted" Welch.  She is survived by her son, Mark Welch and his wife, Julie Welch of Mt. Croghan, SC and her son, Van Welch and his wife, Donna Redmon of Bennett, NC.

Everyone called her by her middle name, Maxine and Ted just called her "Mac". Maxine and Ted were a devoted couple their entire marriage. They made a strong team that raised their family with love and strong values and contributed to the Bennett community with leadership when called for and yeoman's labor when it was required. Maxine was a proud member of Bennett Baptist Church for over 50 years and at her passing was the oldest living member.  Christmas was Maxine's favorite time of year. There wasn't a nook of her house that wasn't decorated with tinsel, wreaths or some Christmas ornament. She always made it a special occasion for the entire family. Maxine also had many hobbies including painting, yard sales and pottery collecting.

There will be a Celebration of Life Funeral Service at Bennett Baptist Church on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at 2:00 PM and will be presided over by Rev. Dr. Jason Whitehurst and John Phillips.  The church will be open for viewing from 1:00 PM until 1:45 PM on Thursday, February 29, 2024.  During that time, the family will be available in the Narthex of the church.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested donations be made to Bennett Baptist Cemetery Care Fund, P.O. Box 213, Bennett, NC 27208.

Arrangements are entrusted to Baumgartner Funeral Home (www.baumgartnerfh.com) of Pageland, SC and Joyce Brady Funeral Home (www.joycebradychapel.com) of Bennett, NC.