Joni Dee Welling

Joni Dee Welling, age 55, passed away on Monday, February 13th, in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. She was born on March 28th, 1967, in Colorado Springs, to Jon and Pamela (Brock) Spaulding. Joni was a 1985 graduate of John F. Kennedy High School. She married Michael William Welling on August 28th, 1993 in Morrison, Colorado. Joni Dee gave birth to her daughter, Taylor Kennedy, on October 13th, 2002. Joni always searched for the next adventure and gave her all in everything she did. She worked at multiple daycare centers, as a telecommunicator, a customer service representative, a primary school educator (also in special education), and as a theatre makeup and hair artist. 

Joni Dee was a beautifully vibrant woman. She made life wonderful for everyone around her. Her positive energy was always so contagious that it stayed in the room even after she left. She was always first to welcome anyone into her home with open arms. Joni Dee never hesitated to embrace her daughter's friends in the house. She took many kiddos in and treated them like her own, as they would call her Mrs. Joni or Mama Welling. She loved when her home was full of friendship and laughter. She was a prayer warrior and was on fire for The Lord. She was always first to give advice or help with homework. Joni loved driving around with her daughter and husband, whether it be on a road trip to her mom's or just to find a restaurant "out-of-the-bubble." Wherever she went, she always made friends along the way. Joni Dee is remembered as the most beautiful daughter in the world, the most supportive mother, and the most loving wife. Taking after her grandmother Mema, she quickly became the matriarch of the family. She led all sides of the family with grace and strength. 


Joni is survived in death by her mom and (step) father, Pamela and Mike; her husband, Mic; her daughter, Taylor; her cousin, Chris; and many nephews, nieces, uncles, aunts, cousins, best friends, and many young people that call her Mama Welling. Being the passionate and committed person she was, her family asks that in her honor, in lieu of flowers, please donate to Audience of One's Joni Welling Scholarship Fund. Through the Joni Welling Scholarship Fund, Audience of One can carry on her powerful legacy by helping young people find their light through the theatre. Joni's family will be holding a Visitation at Heflebower Funeral Services on February 21st from 3-7 pm, a Funeral Service at Amazing Grace Church on February 22nd from 10-11 am, and a Celebration of Life at Red Rocks Country Club from 1-4 pm. Please come and join us to celebrate and honor Joni's life: one full of passion, generosity, grace, and unconditional love. 

Joni Welling Scholarship Fund
www.ao1theater.org/joni