Welker-Matthews

PATTON, Mo. -- LaCosta Ranae Welker and Spc. Joshua Preston Matthews exchanged vows Feb. 25, 2006, at Riverbend Chapel in Washington, Mo. Rod Welker, father of the bride, and Kirby Grindstaff performed the ceremony. Vocalists were Julie Smith of Marble Hill, Mo., and Casey Lincoln of Patton. Soloist was Taylor Werner of Ste. Genevieve, Mo., niece of the groom.

Parents of the couple are Rod and Patty Welker of Patton, and Preston and Liz Matthews of Farmington, Mo.

Maid of honor was Julie Johnson of Marquand, Mo.

Jason Dane of Ellington, Mo., was best man. Ushers were Clinton Beasley of Tamms, Ill., and Adam Welker of Patton, cousins of the bride.

Candlelighter was Kaylee Matthews of St. Louis, niece of the groom.

Flower girl was Shelby Werner of Ste. Genevieve, and ringbearer was Hannah Miller of Farmington, nieces of the groom.

A dinner and dance reception was held at the Riverbend Banquet Room.

Mrs. Matthews is a 2001 graduate of Meadow Heights High School. She received an associate of science degree in office systems technology from Mineral Area College at Park Hills, Mo., in 2003. She is a secretary at Marshview Inn Independent Living.

Matthews is a 1998 graduate of Farmington High School. He is serving in the U.S. Army.

The couple resides in Richmond Hill, Ga.