Loretta Jean Welty, age 78, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Wednesday night, October 1, 2025, at Richland Nursing and Rehab in Olney.

      She was born August 1, 1947, in Flora, the daughter of Frank Hough and Margaret Nell (Dulaney) Perrine.  She had been married to the late James A. “Sonny” Pate and James R. Welty. 

      Loretta began her career at the International Shoe Factory, devoted 28 years to Spartan Manufacturing, and later retired from Xenia Manufacturing Inc.  She found joy outdoors—taking long walks, gardening, and nurturing her flowers.  She admired the beauty of horses, and her time in the country inspired a dream of one day owning a log cabin.  Though quiet by nature, she formed warm friendships—not only with co-workers over the years but also the many people she met on her walks.  She will be remembered for her caring heart and the generous way she gave of herself to others.

      She is survived by her daughters: Angela (Jerry) Burkett of Xenia and Cynthia (Travis) Field of Farina; 2 grandchildren: Amber (Chris) Milt and Jarrett Burkett; and siblings: Frances Kay Benson (the late Ken), Shirley (John) Bryan, Jeff Hough, Charlene Lister, and Beverly (Bill) Wood.

      She was preceded in passing by her parents: Frank Hough and Margaret and Charlie Perrine; and several aunts and uncles.

      A funeral ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery, Flora.  A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com