Shirley Cue Welch

Shirley Cue Welch- passed away peacefully in Santa Fe on April 15, 2021. Born on Feb 6, 1935, in Lubbock, Tx to Leola and JB Marion, she grew up in cotton country, in the 1950s, arguably the heyday of Lubbock, Texas. She met her sweetheart, Jimmy, at OL Slaton Jr High, and their enduring love lasted through Lubbock High School, the University of Texas, and more than 55 years of marriage. Married in 1957, Mom had three children in a span of 13 months. When Dad was transferred to the cold hinterlands of Ohio, Mom took her engaging laugh and southern charm with her. No one said “ya’ll” and “fixin to” with more delight, and her many new friends coveted her sausage gravy and chicken fried steak. She was extraordinarily talented artistically, always painting and drawing; she also taught embroidery to her friends. She created decades of family Christmas cards, and always had projects working with her grandkids. She felt that she was drawn to New Mexico, and after Jimmy’s retirement in 1995, they moved to Santa Fe to be near family and friends. Despite suffering from physical disabilities, she kept a courageous attitude, and chuckling sense of humor. She was “tough as nails” and her charm belied her stubborness. Beneath her polite exterior she could flip you the bird with the greatest of ease, if necessary. Known affectionately as “Honey”, her many friends will miss her infectious laugh and positive nature. Shirley was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband James D. Welch, her parents Jefferson Beauregard Marion and Leola Marion, and her dear brother Bill Marion. She is survived by her children; Sheila Marion Fordyce, (Dave), of Elkton, MD, twin sons Jeff, (Karen), and Jack, (Delfin) of Santa Fe, NM, her Sister, Sybil Hallmark, (Bill) of Ridgway, CO; Grandchildren Adam and Bryan Welch, Austin Welch, and Kate Welch, (soon to be Kinne!), and many nieces and nephews that she adored. Shirley had many loving caregivers, collectively known as “Elva”, that the family holds forever in great esteem. Thank You. Special thanks to the PCU Staff at Christus St. Vincent hospital for their sensitive care and professionalism. Cremation has occurred, and Mom’s ashes are to be mixed with those of her dear Jimmy, and spread in a special place, where joy and love are never ending