With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Matthis Welch, Sr., 84, a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and pillar of his neighborhood and church community, on January 25, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. Matthis was born to Zelna and Katherine Welch on February 6, 1939, in Kennett, Missouri. He was the seventh of ten children: Viola, Timothy, Beatrice, Deborah, Robert, Thelma, Jean, Hubert, and Geraldine, but he would be the first to trade the cold of the Windy City for the warmth of the Golden State.

After graduating from Northern High School in Detroit, Michigan, at the age of 17, he served six valiant years in the United States Air Force, two as an Air Force Reservist in Chicago, Illinois, before his honorable discharge in July of 1962. During his time in the Reserve, he began working for the United States Postal Service at the Worldway Postal Center, which is located on the grounds of the Los Angeles International Airport. We are thankful that after a postal career as an Electronic Technician spanning more than 30 years, he never went postal.

In 1964, he married the love of his life, Nobia Welch (née McCullum), who survives him. Their love story was one of mutual respect, deep understanding, honor, and unwavering support, all deep-rooted on a solid foundation of God’s love. Nobia was not just his wife but his best friend and confidante. Their beautiful union produced a blessed family, who despite their grief, remember and honor Matthis today. He is survived by his sons, Matthis Welch, Jr. (Rhonda), Mychael Welch, Maurice Welch, Sr. (Andrea), and his daughters, Sunsay Meleka (Remon), Stephanie Reed, and Sabrena Brown. 

He is also survived by twenty-four grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. They include grandson Matthis III (Brandy), granddaughters Jessica and Kayla, great-grandsons Matthis IV, Brandon, and Logan; grandson Brae, granddaughters Brittany and Summer; grandsons DeNiko, Devin, and Joseph, granddaughters Meilani and Myranda; granddaughters Tiana, Tasha, and Taylor, great-grandsons Chase, Christian, Zyaire, and Kaiden and great-granddaughters Kylie, Ny’el, and Ava; grandsons Christian, Sebastian, and Samuel, granddaughter Syndey; grandsons Maurice Jr., Micah, Aaron, Avery, and August, and granddaughter Arielle.

Matthis was known for his sharp wit and wisdom, always lending a fresh perspective to any conversation. A long-time fan of Sci-Fi and notably Star Trek, his spirited wordplay was more akin to Spock than Captain Kirk. His intellectual appetite was insatiable, always seeking to learn and expand his knowledge. His keen analytical skills were a testament to his intelligence, and he often used his wit to lighten the mood around him. For more than 40 years, he served as Sunday School Superintendent at Holy Defender C.O.G.I.C. The commercial structure, where services are still held today, began as a former glass factory that Matthis helped renovate into a beautiful stained-glass building with his lifelong best friend, Pastor Hughlen Johnson, Sr., who preceded him in death.

Matthis' spirit of generosity extends beyond his earthly life. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his honor, the "Matthis Welch, Sr. Memorial". Contributions may be made at: https://everloved.com/life-of…. This act of kindness will serve as a testament to Matthis' legacy of selflessness and charity.

Matthis Welch's life was a demonstration of service, dedication, generosity, and love. His laughter and wisdom will be missed, and his influence will forever be a part of those who knew him. It is in the legacy of kindness and generosity he leaves behind that we find comfort during this difficult time. May the memory of Matthis Welch serve as a beacon of light, guiding us towards a life of compassion and benevolence.

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