Newbury, VT-  Barbara Martena Welch, 76, died unexpectedly at her home on Monday, December 5, 2016.

Barb was born in Newbury, VT, on March 4, 1940, to Earl and Rhubertha (Oliver) Boyce.  She was a graduate of Newbury High School, Class of 1958.  On August 19, 1960, she married Kenneth Robert Welch.

Barb served as the Town Clerk of Newbury for over thirty years, retiring in 2002.  She assisted many people with book work and tax preparation in her earlier years.

When in school, Barb played basketball and softball.  She coached her children's softball teams when they were in elementary school.  Along with her husband, Ken, they enjoyed their camp on Tinney Pond.  In her spare time, she enjoyed fishing, taking walks, and gardening.  In particular, Barb maintained a nice blueberry bush.  She did genealogy and was able to travel with her son to Scotland to meet extended family.  Barb made a great lemon meringue pie.  She loved being with her grandchildren.

Barb was predeceased by her parents, Earl and Rhubertha Boyce; a grandson, Robert Batten; and two brothers, George E. and David A. Boyce.

She is survived by three children, Kathy Butler and husband Joseph of Enosburg Falls, VT, James Welch and wife Jenn of Milton, VT, and Karen Batten and husband Randy of  Topsham, VT; seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; a sister, Beverly Wright of Bradford, VT; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Calling hours will be on Sunday, December 11, from 1-3 PM with a memorial service beginning at 3 PM, at Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch Street, Woodsville, NH.

Burial will be at a later date in Oxbow Cemetery, Newbury.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Make-a-Wish Foundation-Vermont, 431 Pine Street, Burlington, VT 05401.