Kevin Gene Welch, 68, of Friona, Texas (or as he always liked to say, "South of Black," proudly claiming to be an "S.O.B."), passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. While the world became a little less bright and laughter-filled, heaven just got a lot more fun. Kevin lit up every room he entered with his big smile, quick wit, and endless jokes, bringing joy even through the toughest times.

Kevin was born November 8, 1956, to Gene and Mildred Welch, who quickly learned that their son would bring as much mischief as he did joy. Alongside his sisters, Veca and Varla, Kevin gave his parents plenty of gray hairs with his daredevil spirit, crashing motorcycles, wrecking (and even sinking) boats, climbing towers, and pulling tricks on the diving board. His fearless drive earned him the nickname "The Rock" on the football field and basketball court at Friona High School, where "Chieftains Fight Never Die" became a motto he carried throughout life.

After high school, Kevin attended Texas Tech University, where he majored in Agricultural Economics but also in fun. Known for his humor and adventurous streak, he made lifelong friends and memories. It was during this time that fate brought him to the love of his life, Linda Wise. After wooing her with poems and persistence, Kevin and Linda married on August 1, 1981, and began their 44-year love story rooted in faith, laughter, and family. Together, they raised four children—Kelsey, Katy, Dillon, and Duncan—filling their home with love, fun, and countless jokes.

Of all his titles in life, Kevin's favorite was "Grampy." His grandchildren, Kitzy, Avah, Haven, and Wade, were his pride and joy, and he shared with each of them a special bond filled with playfulness, encouragement, and unconditional love.

A lifelong farmer, Kevin worked alongside his father before cultivating his own reputation as an exceptional producer. He took pride in his crops and was very respected and honored to his dedication to his job in which he had so much passion. Harvest season was his favorite time of year, a reminder of faith, patience, and reward mirroring the way he lived his own life.

Above all, Kevin was a man of deep faith. He was a longtime member of Hereford Church of the Nazarene, where he faithfully taught Sunday School. Known for weaving humor, stories, and heartfelt lessons into his teaching, he poured countless hours into his class and the people he loved there. His life was a testimony to the truth that faith, fun, and a little orneriness could go hand in hand.

Kevin is survived by his wife, Linda; daughters Kelsey and Katy; sons Dillon and wife Ariana, and Duncan and wife Ariel; and grandchildren Kitzy, Avah, Haven, and Wade. He is also survived by his sisters, Veca Masters (James) and Varla Wilcox (Terry); sisters-in-law Rhonda Wise and Susan Cerday; brother-in-law Kyle Wise (Robin); and many nieces, nephews, and extended family who adored him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Mildred Welch, and his in-laws, Frank and Shirley Wise.

Kevin will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his endless laughter, his love of farming, and the integrity with which he lived every day. His legacy will live on in the lives of all who were blessed to know him.

The Welch family will be available for visitation Friday evening September 5, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Ron Smiley Memorial Chapel of the funeral home. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Hereford Church of the Nazarene in Hereford, Texas. The service will be livestreamed on the church's YouTube channel. Arrangements entrusted to HANSARD FAMILY Funeral Home of Friona.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Kevin's memory to Hereford Church of the Nazarene.

You may send blessings to the family and sign the online guest book exclusively at: hansardfamily.com