Patricia “Patti” Claire (Grace) Welch, of Holyoke, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at the age of 67, on June 23, 2025, surrounded by her daughter Kristen, her niece/goddaughter Rachael, and her two bonus daughters Kelly and Katelyn at her side with love. Patti was born and raised in Holyoke, Massachusetts, to the late John O. Grace and the late Mollie (Kucharski) Grace. Her loving parents raised her alongside her late brother, Jack Grace of Easthampton, MA, and late sister Karen Grace of Holyoke, MA. She cherished many memories with them, especially their time spent at Mt. Tom Ski and Water Resort in Holyoke, MA. She graduated from Holyoke High School in 1975, where she formed a special friendship that lasted her entire life; Kaner’s Krew, which included Patti, Kathy Kane, Paula Rigali, Jeanne McNulty, Gigi Kelaher, and the late Marybeth Murphy. All who will miss their time with her dearly, especially during their annual Holiday Party. After High School, she pursued her passion for nursing, earning her LPN and dedicating her career to caring for others at the Beaven Kelly Home for many years before transitioning to private duty nursing, where her compassion and dedication shone brightly. Patti was a woman of many joys, from watching hummingbirds flit about in the backyard, soaking up the sun, watching a Thunderstorm on her back porch, and nurturing her vibrant lawn. Her home was a sanctuary filled with warmth, laughter, and love, where no one ever left hungry or thirsty. She was blessed with many visitors to her home, but most importantly, she was surrounded by many wonderful neighbors over the years who became her friends, especially the Shannahans and Lou and Dan Kennedy.

Predeceased by her husband and the love of her life, David Welch, in 2019, Patti's spirit remained strong and resilient, a testament to her unwavering determination and kind heart. The two had shared many years of love, happiness, and the joy of raising their only daughter, who was their pride and joy. She is survived by her daughter and best friend, Kristen Welch, with whom she shared a special bond, especially during their beloved Sunday Lifetime Movie Days. Their bond was a beautiful reflection of Patti's nurturing nature and the joy she found in family. Patti was Kristen’s biggest cheerleader and was beyond proud of all the hard work Kristen put into her job as a special education teacher. Her encouragement and love will be deeply missed by Kristen every day. Her sister and brothers-in-law will deeply miss Patti; Mary Grace, Mary and Gary Dearman, Tim and Carol Welch, and Matt and Mary Welch. Her Nieces and Nephews: Todd Grace, Tim Grace, Meredith Desrochers, John Grace, Rachael Dearman, Erin Welch, Brian Welch, Alex Welch, Thomas Welch, and all of their families. In addition to the countless friends with whom she cherished many memories. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the ICU staff at Holyoke Medical Center, particularly nurse Pete, for their compassionate care and support during Patti's final weeks.

The funeral will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025 at 9:00am from the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in Saint Jerome Church, 169 Hampden Street. Burial will follow in Saint Jerome Cemetery, all in Holyoke. Calling hours will be held Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Patti's memory to the Holyoke Boys and Girls Club, an organization that reflects her generous spirit and commitment to the community.