Aaron Wesley Welch, Jr., affectionately known as Wes, passed away at the age of 67 on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, MS. Born on June 7, 1958, in Laurel, Mississippi, Wes spent his life in the community he loved.

Wes dedicated 44 years of his career as a machinist at Laurel Machine and Foundry. Outside of work, he was passionate about the outdoors, enjoying fishing, bow hunting, and gardening. His loyal puppies, Peanut and Bandit, were his constant companions.

He is survived by his loving family, including his daughters Charla Parker (Roger), and Tesa DeLong (Bart); his mother Jeanette Byrd Welch; his brother Grady Welch; and his sisters Becky Reynolds and Pam Welch. Wes was a proud grandfather to Alex Parker (TeeJay), Marc Whatley (Aryssa), Josh Parker (Jessi), Brooke Parker, Ashley Talbot (Chris), Amber Dearman, and Sean Dearman, and a great-grandfather to Grayson Parker, Leah Parker, Kameron Whatley, Hannah Parker, Mattie Rae Parker, Allie Payne, Jayden Gilbert, and Kash Talbot. He also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews.

Wes was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra Smith Welch, his son Keith Fowler, and his father, Aaron Wesley Welch, Sr.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, with visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM at Ellisville Funeral Home, 1204 B Ave, Ellisville, Mississippi. Burial will follow at Welch - Graham Cemetery in Ellisville, Mississippi. Bro. Johnny Bryant and Bro. Charles Brady will officiate the services. Pallbearers will include Roger Parker, Alex Parker, Marc Whatley, Josh Parker, Jerry Hinton, and Ricky Ponder.

Wes will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.