Doak D. Welch, age 77, passed away peacefully at his home in Waxahachie, Texas, on May 27, 2026.

Born in Pecos, Texas, Doak was the beloved son of Shorty and Cleo Welch and the youngest of eleven children. Being the baby of such a large family helped shape his strong sense of loyalty, humor, and deep connection to those he loved.

On August 4, 1967, Doak married the love of his life, Beverly Welch. Together, they built a beautiful life full of love, laughter, and shared adventures that spanned nearly 60 years. They raised two daughters, Misti and Kristi, who were the pride of his life. Later, his heart grew even bigger with the arrival of his grandson, Tristan—truly the apple of his eye. There was nothing he loved more than being “Pops.”

Doak proudly served his country in the United States Navy, enlisting in March 1968 and serving honorably for six years. After his service, he dedicated 25 years of hard work as an electrician with Enron. He took great pride in providing for his family and was respected for both his skill and his work ethic.

He found joy in the simple things in life—especially being outdoors, with fishing being one of his greatest loves. Doak was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back and never think twice about helping someone in need. His family knew they could always count on him.

After retirement, Doak and Beverly embraced one of their favorite chapters together—traveling across the United States in their RV, making memories and enjoying life side by side. They also shared a fun-loving spirit, especially when it came to gambling trips with their daughters, creating countless stories filled with laughter.

In his later years, his happiest moments were often the simplest—sitting side by side with his grandson Tristan, playing WWE in the living room floor on Friday nights, and enjoying every second of that special bond.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Shorty and Cleo Welch along with his siblings, Lee Frymire, Jeanne Lubbe, Maxine Carter, Dwain Welch, Glenda Videtto, Durl Welch, and Dex Welch and his siblings in-laws, Rollie Lubbe, David Cook, and Billy Hanks.

Doak is survived by his loving wife, Beverly Welch; daughter and son-in-law, Misti and Rafael Natividad; daughter and partner, Kristi Welch and Rachael Rowray; and his cherished grandson, Tristan Natividad. He is also survived by his siblings, Jerry Cook, Judy Guthrie and spouse Ron, Kaye Hanks and Sue Frymire; sisters-in-law, Karen Chisum and partner, Erin O’Kelly, Royanne Chisum, Nell Welch, Pat Welch, and Doris Welch; brother-in-law Wayne Chisum and his wife, Zee; along with numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Doak will be remembered for his big heart, his steady strength, and the way he showed up for his family every single day. The stories, laughter, and love he gave so freely will live on in all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed, always remembered, and forever loved.