James Evan WelchSOUTHLAKE, TXJames Evan Welch passed away Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2017, at the Isle at Watermere in Southlake, Texas. Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held 2:00PM, Friday, November 3, 2017, at The Bowden, Holly Chapel 1775 Keller Parkway, Keller, Texas 76248, with a reception to follow.James was born on March 17, 1938, in Anson, Texas, the son of JY and Lucille Welch. Jim graduated from Abilene High School in 1956, played on 'Team of the Century' that won 49 consecutive games and won the Texas 4A State Championship from 1954-1956. He played for SMU from 1957-1960, and was picked by the Baltimore Colts in 3rd round of 1960 NFL draft. He played for the Colts from 1960-1967 and later the Detroit Lions in 1968. After retiring from football, he began a successful career as a stockbroker in Baltimore and New York City. In 2001, he retired in Trophy Club, Texas and in 2010 was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and suspected CTE caused by brain injuries sustained during his football career.He had a passion for many other sports, mainly tennis, racquetball, and golf. He enjoyed entertaining family and friends, grilling, performing tricks in the backyard pool, and howling in the evening to make the neighbors' dogs bark. Jim was preceded in death by a brother, Tom Welch.He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Betty (Dvorak) Welch; seven children, Mark Welch, Laurie Leavoy, Carlyn Wilson, Elisa Sanchez, Kimberly Evans, Mark Evans, and John Welch; three brothers, David Welch, Jerry Welch, and Doug Welch; thirteen grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many friends.In lieu of flowers and gifts, our family asks for donations to be directed to support the work of Dr. Sam Gandy. "In Memory of Jim Welch" https://philanthropy.mountsinai.org/neurology