Patricia Ann Welch

Patricia Ann Welch, 82, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House.

She was born on August 26, 1943, in Egypt, Arkansas, to the late Randolph and Lillian Jones. Patricia spent many years working as a machine operator at Hytrol, where she dedicated nearly 30 years before retiring. She was known for her strong work ethic and the friendships she built during her time there.

Patricia found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved playing Bean Bag Baseball and proudly won a state championship as a member of the Bono Lakers. She also enjoyed dancing, watching basketball, especially cheering for Steph Curry, and spending time with friends and family. Some of her happiest moments were spent watching and supporting her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her longtime partner, Richard Jaco; two sisters, Patsy Renfroe and Bobbie Huffman; and one brother, Donald Jones.

Patricia is survived by her daughters, Shelly Raby (Vearl Chester) of Jonesboro and Becky Barnes (Ben) of Lake City; her brothers, Jerry Jones and Dean Jones, both of Jonesboro; and her sister, Sue Houze of Ohio. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Eric McGee (Katie) of Jonesboro, Allie Miller (Tyler) of Trumann, and Jake Raby (Madeline) of Jonesboro. Her legacy continues through her great grandchildren, Judah McGee, James McGee, John McGee, Preslee Fraser, and Krew Miller. She is also survived by her niece, Tabatha Massey, along with several other nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 17, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Emerson Memorial Chapel, with the funeral service following at 2:00 p.m. Ben Miller will officiate. Burial will be private.

Honorary pallbearers will include Eric McGee, Jake Raby, Jerry Jones, Dean Jones, Ben Barnes, Tyler Miller, Phillip Massey, and the Bono Lakers.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Patricia’s memory.