Jason Edgar Welch

In loving memory of Jason Edgar Welch, whose remarkable journey among us began on September 21, 1977, in Ithaca, New York, and concluded too soon, and unexpectedly, in the same city on July 14, 2026. Jason’s life was a story quietly vibrant and deeply felt—a narrative woven of faith, creativity, compassion, and community.

From a young age, Jason displayed a boundless curiosity, which blossomed in his formative years spent in Ithaca. His academic path led from the halls of Ithaca High School to further study at TC3, nourishing both his intellect and his sense of purpose. These roots would anchor him as he grew into a man of many talents, with a calling that radiated through his work and his love for others.

A minister whose voice reached through the airwaves with his faith-based podcast, Jason sought not only to share his beliefs but also to invite others into thoughtful conversation. Faith, for Jason, was living and dynamic—a guiding star that shone through his every action and word.

Jason’s creative spirit was uncontainable. As an author, artist, singer, and songwriter, his works touched many. His books, the evocative “Heart Strings,” a book of poetry, and the imaginative “Chronicles of Filograt,” opened windows into his soul and inspired those who discovered them. Music was Jason’s heartbeat; his number one song performances on YouTube captivated listeners with their sincerity, and his voice—warm and soulful—lingered long after the last note. Whether writing, painting, singing, or composing, Jason poured his essence into his art, inviting all to see the world through his eyes.

Community found Jason not only in the formal settings of faith and performance but also in play and camaraderie. He cherished the thrill of live action role playing, where his imagination, empathy, and enthusiasm found joyful release among friends. In each gathering, Jason was the force that wove together laughter, belonging, and the possibility of adventure along with his thrill of playing Dungeons and Dragons.

Jason leaves behind an extensive and loving family. His mom, Kathryn VanZile; his dad, Melvin VanZile and father, Michael Welch, supported him unfailingly, just as he offered them steadfast love. His brother, Nicholas G. VanZile, his sisters Kelly L. Welch, Amanda J. Frost, and Amy Welch, along with his sisters- and brothers-in-law—Lisa, Terry, and Robert—shared deep bonds of kinship and memory. Jason’s legacy shines most brightly in his children: his daughters, Mary Kathryn Welch (with Alex), Allyssa Welch, and Chloe Welch, and his sons, Christopher Welch and Melvin Welch. His granddaughters, Aela Chapman and Rwby Chapman, were lights in his later years, their laughter echoing his own sense of wonder.

He was also embraced by his aunt, uncles, cousins, and a cherished circle of friends, each of whom felt the unique presence Jason brought to their worlds. Grief is softened by memory for these many loved ones. Jason now joins in rest those who preceded him—his beloved grandmother Eleanor Stickane, his precious granddaughter Nova Opal Welch Campbell, his aunt Marsha Waters, and his nephew Connor VanZile—fortifying the deep connections that transcend even death.

Jason’s story did not shy from sorrow, nor did it lack for triumph. It was a life approached with open hands and open heart—a legacy of kindness, conviction, and authentic presence. Those who knew him will carry his voice, his words, his smile, and his unending hope as lasting gifts.

Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate Jason Edgar Welch’s life, remembering all he gave and all he was on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at Perkins Funeral Home, 55 W. Main St., Dryden, NY. A time of visitation will begin at 2:30 pm followed by a time of sharing at 3:30 pm.

May his memory continue to inspire, his voice sing on, and his love remain ever present in the hearts of those who mourn his passing and cherish his life.