John Richard "Dick" Scott-Welch

Reverend John Richard “Dick” Scott-Welch

John Richard “Dick” Scott-Welch was born July 2, 1947, in Ruston, Louisiana, to Lafayette Richard and Lenoir Rabb Welch and passed to his Reward August 4, 2026, at Webb House in McMinnville, TN.

Dick enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on May 22, 1967, in San Antonio, Texas. During his enlistment, he was eventually sent to Vietnam, where he served with the 1st Marine Division. After a time in the Marine Reserves, Dick was given an Honorary Discharge.

After a year or two, Dick started his college career at Centenary College of Louisiana, eventually earning his master's degree in theology at Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta. It was there that he met the love of his life, Melanie Anne Scott. They were united in Marriage September 14, 1974.

Dick made the full connection in the United Methodist Church on June 4, 1980, by being ordained as an Elder. Being in Ministry, Dick and Melanie were appointed to multiple churches in their life together. After serving the Church for over 20 years, Dick and Melanie decided to move to Melanie's hometown of McMinnville, TN. Once they settled, Dick worked in pastoral care at McMinnville First United Methodist Church. Outside of McMinnville FUMC, Dick also preached at other churches in the area if they were in need of a Pastor that Sunday.

Dick had a jovial personality, always at the ready with a good joke or story. When times required, he was also ready with serious advice and Godly wisdom. He could reach the hearts and minds of young children, all the way to one with a lifetime of experiences. Although Dick and Melanie did not have any children of their own, they truly enjoyed their cats and books.

Dick is survived by his sister, Anne Heath-Welch ( Houston, Texas) Brother Bill and Sister-In-Law Kathy Welch ( Houston, Texas) Nieces Katherine McMillen and husband Joey, Sarah Kriehn and husband Robert, 3 great nieces Isobel McMillen, Amelia and LeNoir Kriehn and one Great Nephew, Paul Kriehn. Special friend and longtime caregiver Julie Holt also survives. Dick is preceded in death by his wife Melanie and parents Lafayette Richard & LeNoir Rabb Welch. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to McMinnville First United Methodist Church or Semper Fi & Americas Fund by clicking here.

Dick will be missed greatly, but we can rejoice in the fact that he has received his Heavenly reward.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at First United Methodist Church in McMinnville, TN with Ryan Heatherly officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at the church. No service or visitation will be held at High's. 

Online condolences may be left at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home and High's Cremations, Inc are in charge of arrangements.