Eileen M. Welch

Eileen M. Welch, 72, of King Ferry, passed away unexpectedly on October 29, 2023 at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse.

Born March 17, 1951 in New York City, she was the daughter of Carlos and Carmen (Diaz) Rivera. She earned her bachelor's degree at St. John's University, her master's at Yeshiva University, and also attained credits at New York University.

An area resident since 1982, she worked in the Southern Cayuga Central School District where she filled many roles in special education, Spanish translation and many other teaching roles up until the day before the Lord took her. She taught in various private schools and served 18 years with the United Cerebral Palsy organization in NYC.  Eileen volunteered many hours for the King Ferry Food Pantry, translating for the Hispanic community and was a member of the Ithaca First Assembly of God Church.

She is survived by her husband, George Welch, of King Ferry; sons, Andrew Welch, of Auburn and Jonathan Welch, of Ithaca and her daughter, Therese Welch and fiancé James Hover, of Endicott.

Eileen was a dedicated mother of three adopted children that she selflessly loved with her whole heart. She made great sacrifices throughout the years passing up potential careers and opportunities by homeschooling, arranging special needs curriculum where it was necessary for her children. She wouldn't have changed a thing, for she loved her children with unconditional love. Her qualities of compassion and patience, along with her Understanding nature, and her love of helping others, all three of her children were able to graduate. Eileen has touched so many lives, and her God given spirit was so beautiful, she was impossible not to love. 

A Memorial Service will be held from 12:00 Noon - 1:00 PM on Saturday, November 18 at Ithaca First Assembly of God Church, 197 Bostwick Road, Ithaca.  The family will receive friends on Saturday from 11:00 AM- Noon, preceding the service.  A reception will follow.

Memorial donations are graciously directed to the King Ferry Food Pantry, P.O. Box 242, King Ferry, NY 13081.  Arrangements are with the Shurtleff Funeral Home, Genoa (www.shurtleffservices.com).