Billie Luree Bauer Welch, 88, Topeka, KS, formerly Larned, KS, passed away March 9, 2025 in Topeka, KS. She was born June 8, 1936, in Larned, the youngest of three daughters born to Vernon E. and Kathryn M. (Mallow) Bauer.

She was raised in the Radium community and graduated from RHS in 1954. She married Neal E. Welch on October 1, 1956. They later divorced. She was baptized in the Radium Christian Church and member of the First Christian Church in Larned, KS.

Billie was a secretary at Larned State Hospital retiring in 1996 after 25 years of service. She moved to Topeka to be near her two daughters. She worked as a receptionist for eight and a half years in a Topeka retirement community.

Survivors include: two daughters, Deborah A. Welch, Topeka, KS, and Rebekah J. James (Jon), Tecumseh, KS; and numerous nieces and nephews. Mrs. Welch was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Barbara Bauer Carter and Elaine Bauer Weathers; a niece, nephew and three bother-in-laws.

Graveside service and burial have taken place in the Larned Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 S. W. 21st St., Topeka, Kansas, 66600 or in care of Beckwith Mortuary, Box 477 Larned, KS 67550.  Condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.