Wanda Lou ‘Chili’ Welch

Wanda Lou “Chili” Welch, a lifelong resident of the Comanche/Duncan area, passed away on June 8, 2025, at Duncan Regional Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 17, 1934, in Comanche, to Oleva (Tarter) and Bacal Charles Welch.

Wanda graduated from Comanche High School in 1952, where she was an active and beloved student, participating in basketball, cheerleading, and serving as a class officer.

She dedicated 15 years of her professional life to Getty Texaco Oil. Following this, Wanda devoted 18 years to caring for her mother. In 2005, she embraced a new calling, becoming a foster grandparent for Duncan High School students, a role she cherished for 15 years. In a heartwarming full-circle moment, some of these same students later provided care for her at Elks Crossing Nursing Home.

Wanda found immense comfort in her home. When she did venture out, she enjoyed attending Thunder, Rangers, and Oklahoma State games. She took great pride in seeing her grandchildren graduate from high school and Oklahoma State University, and she was delighted to attend her granddaughter’s wedding in California.

Her simple pleasures included sitting on the porch and bird watching, enjoying sunsets with her daughter Susan, and indulging in TV dramas and true crime. Dining out was a favorite pastime, with Bob’s Landmark Eatery holding a special place in her heart.

Wanda was a lifelong Christian and a dedicated member of New Hope Baptist Church and the Beam Sunday school class.

She is survived by her daughter, Susan Johnson Dias; her son, Danny Johnson (Marga) of Choctaw; her grandchildren, Sarah Young (Chris) of Pasadena, Calif., and Brian Johnson of Tulsa; and her great-grandchildren, Myles Young, Noah Young, and Henry Young. She also leaves behind her faithful canine companion, Bebe.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bacel and Oleva Welch; her brother Jack “Chili Bun” Welch and her son Jacy Joe Welch. 

A memorial service will be held July 12, at 2 p.m. at New Hope Baptist Church. Lunch for family and friends will be at 1 p.m.