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Colleen Kay (Stone) Welch was born on July 23, 1958, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Carl Stone and Betty (Reasor) Stone-Butler. She passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, at the age of 67 years, 9 months, and 6 days. Colleen spent her childhood in Kenwood, Oklahoma, where she attended Kenwood School through the 8th grade. She graduated Jay High School with the Class of 1976. In 1997, she completed courses to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, a career she would faithfully dedicate herself to for many years.
When Colleen moved to Oaks, she met the love of her life, Billy Jack Welch. The couple was united in marriage on December 18, 1981, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Together, they built a life full of love, raising two children, Josh and Jolene. They made their home in the Oaks area, where they lived for most of their married life, sharing over 39 years together before Billy preceded her in death on March 20, 2021.
Colleen devoted many years of service as an LPN, working at Gravette Clinic and later at Hastings Hospital in Tahlequah until her retirement. She was known for her compassionate care and dedication to others. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Colleen spent countless hours reading her Bible, often making notes and reflecting deeply on its teachings. She cherished her time in Bible studies and found great joy in her spiritual journey.
Colleen was actively involved in her community. She served as the Treasurer for the Oaks Senior Citizens and was a member of the 918 Elder Program, where she worked at the restore. She enjoyed being surrounded by people and took every opportunity to give back. She had a love for life and adored her three dogs and her cat. She found happiness in giving—often buying food and gifts for others. She treasured fellowship, family gatherings, and game nights at Rocky Ford. She also had a special love for flowers, especially her roses, which she tended with care.
Colleen will be remembered for her outgoing nature and warm spirit. She never met a stranger and had a gift for conversation, making everyone she met feel welcome and valued. Her kindness and generosity left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Colleen is survived by: Her loving daughter: Jolene Hill and husband Joe of Rocky Ford, Oklahoma; 2 grandchildren: Holly Duffield and husband Billy of Jay, Oklahoma, and Hayden Tanner and fiancé` Danielle Bradshaw of Rocky Ford, Oklahoma; 5 great grandchildren: Baker, Lucy, Emelia, Benjamin, and Wren; 1 siter-in-law: Susie Welch of Oaks, Oklahoma. Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Billy Jack Welch; and one son, Josh Welch.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M., Monday, May 4, 2026, at Locust Grove Funeral Home Chapel, with Reverend Clayton Moore officiating. Cremation services have been entrusted to Locust Grove Funeral Home. Memories, condolences, and tributes may be shared at www.locustgrovefuneralhome.com.
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