Paul Charles Welch

Paul Charles Welch, 61, of Cape Coral, Florida passed away Saturday, June 6, 2026, in Cape Coral. Paul was born October 17, 1964, in Savanna, Georgia.

Paul was married to the love of his life, Kelly, for 39 years. They were childhood sweethearts. At nine years old, Kelly informed Paul he was going to be her husband. Pretty brash, you say? Well, it worked, and the rest - let's just say - is history!

Twenty-seven years ago, Paul was instrumental in co-founding a Cape Coral pre-school by the name of Sunrise Academy, a ministry where he found great joy nurturing the needs of each young person entrusted to his care. Nine years ago, Paul and Kelly handed the leadership baton off to their son, Paul Anthony, and daughter-in-law Alysa. Under their strong guidance, the legacy of Sunrise Academy continues today.

What was Paul like as a person? It depends on who you ask, but regardless, you'll likely get a similar response from most.

Above all, Paul treasured time spent with his family and held a deep devotion for all. As a father, Paul's consistent concern was meeting the spiritual, physical and emotional needs of his children and grandchildren. Their well-being was always at the top of his priority list.

He had a wonderful sense of humor. Paul's family recalls that he was especially proud of his "dad jokes," often saying that humor was his 'therapy' - a way to bring light into the often-anxious lives of others. Along that same line, Paul was known for his quiet strength and unwavering courage. He had a remarkable gift for putting others at ease. His life of service and compassionate care will be remembered by all who knew him well.

Finally, Paul was a man defined by his deep love for God. Having grown up a 'pastor's kid', Paul's faith matured with age into a deep passion for teaching and sharing God's word. At Bayshore Community Church and beyond, Paul dedicated countless hours helping people in various situations of need. Paul's legacy of love, faith, and generosity will continue to inspire all he's left behind.

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Kelly; two children, Paul Anthony Welch (Alysa) and Phillip Welch (Megan); mom, Virginia Welch; two sisters, Rebecca Burns and Karen McIntyre; as well as six grandchildren, Alysa Welch, Ashton Welch, Poseidon Welch, Ronald Welch, Robert Welch, and Victor Welch.

Paul was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Welch and younger brother Peter Welch. What a reunion in heaven that must have been!

So, brother Paul, this is good-bye for now, but not forever. If every good and perfect gift is truly from above (as the Apostle James states), we'll conclude that our Good Father had a special edition Harley waiting in heaven with your name on it. Ride on, Brother Paul. Ride on!!

Service for Paul will be held this Saturday, June 13th, 11:00 am at Bayshore Community Church, 16990 Church Drive, North Fort Myers, FL 33917.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Paul Charles Welch may be made to the Bayshore Community Church Benevolence Fund, 16990 Church Drive, North Fort Myers, Florida 33917. Donations may be submitted online or by check payable to the Bayshore Community Church Benevolence Fund and mailed to the address above.