Welta Harrelson

Welta H. Harrelson, 90, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, at Clapp’s Nursing Home in Asheboro, North Carolina.

Welta was born on January 16, 1935, in Ukraine, of German descent, to Gerhart Harsch and Ida T. Harsch. She arrived in the United States on May 24, 1952, and proudly became a U.S. citizen on December 3, 1957. In the years that followed, she built a life grounded in love, faith, and family. On August 17, 1958, she married Albert A. Harrelson. They shared 44 years of marriage until his passing on January 8, 2003.

A woman of deep faith, Welta was a devoted and lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Asheboro. For her and many of the other German families who settled in the area, the church was more than a place of worship—it was a cornerstone of community, identity, and support. Her connection to the church remained a constant throughout her life, shaping her values and nurturing her spirit.

Welta began her career at Bossong Hosiery Mill in Asheboro before becoming a licensed cosmetologist and operating her own business. After spending several years as a homemaker raising her family, she later returned to work in the cafeteria at Farmer School, where she found joy in serving and connecting with the students and staff.

She is survived by her sons, Michael Harrelson and wife Sharon, and Mark Harrelson and wife Tracey; and her beloved grandchildren, Amy Dickinson and husband Trenton, Joanna Harrelson and boyfriend, Dylan Underwood, and Hailey Harrelson. Welta will be remembered for her unwavering faith, strength, and the love she gave so freely to her family and friends.

Ms. Harrelson will lie in repose at Ridge Funeral Home from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm, Saturday, April 19, 2025. A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 pm at St. John’s Lutheran Church, with Rev. Dr. Keith Less officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the church. A private burial will be held at Randolph Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 505 S Park Street, Asheboro, NC 27203—a place that held a sacred and central place in Welta’s life.