JAY — A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Billy E. Welch, 78, of Fayette, was held at 10 a.m. March 31 at St. Rose of Lima Church in Jay, with the Rev. Thomas Lequin as celebrant.

Billy’s son, Tom Welch, carried the urn in procession to the altar, followed by other family members. Family member Jeannine Wilkins offered the readings and sons Tom and Tim Welch brought the gifts forward. Tom shared a poem written by his father as the eulogy. Hymns sang by the Resurrection Choir were “It Is Well With My Soul,” “Morning Has Broken,” “As The Deer Longs,” “You Are Mine,” “Ave Maria” featuring Don Lesuer, “Saints of God” and “Lord, Now Let Thy Servant Go In Peace.”

Billy’s family hosted a time of fellowship following Mass at the Knights of Columbus hall in Jay. Committal will be held later in the spring at Holy Cross Cemetery in Livermore Falls. Entombment will be at Wiles Remembrance Center, 308 Franklin Road, Jay.