Gregory Welsh
Sunday
2
February

Visitation

1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Sunday, February 2, 2025
Bailey Funeral Home - Peapack
176 Main St.
Peapack, New Jersey, United States
Monday
3
February

Funeral Service

11:00 am - 11:30 am
Monday, February 3, 2025
Bailey Funeral Home - Peapack
176 Main St.
Peapack, New Jersey, United States

Obituary of Gregory Lee Welsh

Gregory Lee Welsh, 86, passed away unexpectedly on January 28, 2025, at Morristown Medical Center after a brief hospital stay.

Born in Somerville, NJ, to Norman and Doris Oehlers Welsh, Greg spent his early years in Far Hills, growing up as the eldest brother to his three sisters, Pam, Linda and Debbie and brother Peter. From a young age, he was fiercely independent, always drawn to new experiences and challenges. That adventurous spirit led him to serve in the United States Navy on board a Naval Mine Sweeper, a role that allowed him to see the world and ignited a lifelong passion for history, languages, and different cultures.

Following his service, Greg joined the family car dealership business but soon felt the call to forge his own path. Ever the independent soul, he pursued careers that allowed him to work with his hands and be his own boss, including running his own painting business. Later, he found a home at Chubb Insurance Company in Warren, where his exceptional craftsmanship in woodworking was quickly recognized. His skill in fine cabinetry led him to create custom woodwork for executive offices, and his reputation for meticulous craftsmanship extended beyond the workplace into personal commissions. Throughout his life, he took immense pride in his woodworking, antique tool restoration, and all forms of skilled handiwork that required patience and precision.

Deeply committed to service, Greg dedicated much of his time to his community. He was an active member of the Far Hills Fire Department and First Aid Squad and found great fulfillment in mentoring young people as the Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 53 in Bedminster.

His love for the outdoors was undeniable, and those who knew him best often referred to him as a "mountain man" for his rugged, self-reliant approach to life. He had a passion for banding hawks, fly fishing, hunting, and golf, as well as a deep appreciation for history and collecting—particularly antique tools and, in his younger years, stamps. A voracious reader, Greg ended his evenings in quiet contentment, always with a book in one hand and a glass of scotch or bourbon in the other, savoring the simple pleasures of knowledge and reflection.

For the past 40 years, Greg made his home in Tewksbury, NJ, with his beloved wife, Barbara. Together, they created a cabin sanctuary in the woods, a place where they could be surrounded by the wildlife they cherished—foxes, bear, deer, and countless birds, all viewed from the comfort of their sunroom. Being immersed in nature brought Greg profound joy, a fitting backdrop to a life lived with independence, curiosity, and purpose.

He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Crane Welsh; his daughter, Karen Gilbert, and her husband, Rod; his son, Richard Welsh, and his wife, Marie; his stepson, Keith Harvey, and his wife, Andrea; and his stepdaughter, Kristi Kenworthy, and her husband, Richard. He was a proud grandfather to Matthew, Chelsea, Troy, Ethan, Luke, Lily, and Catherine, as well as to his step-grandchildren, Shelby, Josh, and William. He also leaves behind his great-grandchild, Jacob, who brought him immense joy.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at Bailey Funeral Home, 176 Main Street, Peapack. A funeral service will be held on Monday at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Interment will be private at Bedminster Cemetery.

Greg’s warmth, ability to connect with anyone, and insatiable curiosity for the world around him will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His was a life well-lived—full of adventure and love.

 In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Greg’s memory to Tunnel to Towers Foundation

 

 

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