Alice Barry Welsh

Alice Barry Welsh began her journey into eternal life with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 5, 2026, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. She was 92 years old. Alice was the beloved daughter of the late Archie and Jeanette (St. Martin) Barry.

Born in Holyoke, Massachusetts, on December 30, 1933, Alice spent her early years there. She graduated from Holyoke High School where she formed many lifelong friendships and memories and carried throughout her life the strong values of hard work, kindness, and devotion to family. Shortly after, she met and married the love of her life.

On May 25, 1957, Alice married Donald A. Welsh. Together they shared 50 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. Their greatest blessing was their daughter, Susanne Marie Welsh of Agawam.

In her early career, Alice had a small maid service, she modeled hair styles on a local tv station, and she successfully ran a motel, developing it into a family friendly, distinguished and well-respected establishment.

Alice enjoyed a distinguished 20-year career with the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority. Beginning as a toll collector, she earned the respect of her colleagues through her dedication and determination, eventually becoming the Authority’s first female Courier Supervisor. She took great pride in her work and in breaking barriers for women in the workplace. Alice was the first woman boss of the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority.

Alice enjoyed hosting fun-filled parties and picnics and was an excellent cook. She enjoyed traveling and golfing. She will be remembered for hosting sit down dinners on New Year’s Eve after which she would open her home to neighbors, friends, co-workers and family to ring in the New Year. She had a great eye for interior decorating and was an elegant dresser.

In addition to her daughter Susanne, Alice is survived by her sister, Janet Belliveau of Westfield, as well as several beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Donald Welsh; her sister, Edna Gajewski; her brother, Norman Barry; and her cherished godchild, Carolann Gajewski Rocheleau.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 15th, 2026, at 3:00pm at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Agawam, MA.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, whose mission of caring for children and families reflects Alice’s generous and compassionate spirit.