Wanda "Chili" Lou Welch

A gentle soul has gained her wings; Wanda Lou Welch, or as she was lovingly known as "Chili" was born April 17, 1934 in Comanche, to Charles Bacel Welch and Oleva Vella Welch. She passed away on Sunday afternoon, June 8, 2025 at Duncan Regional Hospital. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 12th at 2:00 p.m. in the parlor at New Hope Baptist Church, with Bro. Randy Southerland officiating. Inurnment will be at Fairlawn Cemetery in Comanche.

Survivors include her children: Dan Johnson and wife Marga, Choctaw, OK, and Susan Johnson Dias, Duncan. OK; two grandchildren: Sarah Young and husband Chris, Santa Clarita, CA, and Brian Johnson, Tulsa, OK; three great-grandchildren: Myles Young, Henry Young, and Noah Young; two cousins, Carol Weddle, Duncan, OK, and Linda Welch Eversole, Abilene, TX; her precious Bebe, her canine companion of more than 17 years; and several close friend. Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, Bacel and Oleva Welch; a brother, Jack "Chili Bun" Welch, and her son, Jackie Joe Johnson.

Wanda graduated from Comanche High School in 1952, where she was a cheerleader, played basketball, and was a class officer. She worked for and retired from Texaco/Getty Oil where she worked for 18 years, retiring in 1995. In 2005 following the death of her mother, she worked as a volunteer with Duncan Public Schools as a foster grandmother. She was affectionately known as "Grandma Wanda". She was a foster grandparent for over 15 years.

She was a homebody, preferring to stay at home. She loved feeding the birds and watching them from her living room, and she loved watching the sunset from her front porch. When she traveled, she enjoyed attending sporting events, like the OKC Thunder, Texas Rangers, and OSU Cowboys. Her last sports outing was attending the Big 12 OSU game. Wanda was able to see both of her grandchildren graduate, and also attended her granddaughter's wedding.

Wanda loved watching Jeopardy with her daughter, where they would laugh when they got the answers right. She loved going out to eat, especially at Bob's Restaurant, where they always made her feel extra special. She also loved being pampered with manicures and pedicures. Another cherished memory is asking Alexa to play her favorite songs, and dancing from her chair. She was a member of New Hope Baptist Church West, and a member of the Beacon Class.

Her gentle smile and sweet soul will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Mom, now there is no more pain. You are walking again with God by your side.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Stephens County Animal Rescue.