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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William (Billy) Welsh, who left peacefully on November 11, 2025, at Bluewater Health Palliative Care.
He will be dearly missed by his wife of 54 years, Joan, daughters Lesley (Steve) and Deborah (Francisco) and grandchildren Maddy, Alex, Sarah and Rose. He is also survived by his sisters Diane (Joe) and Rosemary and his sister-in-law Mandy, all of Northern Ireland. Predeceased by his parents Herbert and Rose and his brother Ronnie. Billy will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews and family members in Northern Ireland and Scotland.
Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, on March 16, 1948, Billy’s lifelong passion was football, a love that began in boyhood and stayed with him throughout his life. He shared that passion with his children and grandchildren, who enjoy both playing the game and watching it together on TV.
In 1977, Billy and Joan brought their young family to Canada where together they built a new life. They soon found friends who became like family, gathering often to reminisce about life back home, share stories, and enjoy many sing-songs that kept the spirit of home alive.
Billy was a longtime member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, where he shared his faith and love of music as a member of the choir and served with dedication as an elder. He was also a proud member of Liberty Lodge No. 419, where he served with commitment and honour through two terms as Master. Billy valued the strong sense of brotherhood within the Lodge.
Billy deeply loved and cherished his four grandchildren. He rarely missed a hockey game, dance recital, soccer match, or school concert, always cheering them on with pride. Nothing brought him more joy than spending time with them, he was never happier than when he was surrounded by his grandchildren.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Tong, Dr. Lilly, the nursing staff at Bluewater Health, the VON, with special thanks to Bernie, for their exceptional care and compassion. They are also deeply thankful to their friends and family for their unwavering support and kindness.
“May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.”
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home – London Line Chapel, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 261 Christina St. N. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Sarnia or Bluewater Health – Palliative Care (cheques only at the funeral home please).
