Our Mom graduated from High School in Japan. (Her father was stationed there with the US Marines & later Civil Service). Mom’s life has been one of travel & living overseas. Originally from California, our Mom has lived in Panama & Honduras, & has traveled all over the world. She also was bilingual, speaking Spanish & English.
Mom’s career first was as a Banking Loan Officer. She later met our Dad, LTC Herman L. West while living in Panama & they married. As a career Army Officers wife, they lived at various Army bases in California, North Carolina, Georgia. (They later were stationed in Honduras.) While stationed at Ft McPherson, GA…our Dad became the Deputy Post Commander & our Mom had to learn “high-level” relationship building as she had to support our father by entertaining Generals & local politicians. Our Mom & Dad became a “celebrity couple” among the elite and local leaders, including former Governor Lester Maddox of Georgia.
Raising 3 children, Mom also was a dedicated Housewife & mother. She loved to paint & do ceramics. Later she joined various social organizations where she was a leader including MOAA & “The compatibles” (a social club). Never shy to get involved with people, she volunteered often to arrange social gatherings & support charitable organizations. She also was an avid reader & loved old movie classics. Mom was also a devote Catholic.
Mom is survived by her children Bill West, Ann Brown, & Michele West. Ann & Michele live in Jacksonville, while Bill lives in Virginia. Mom also has several nephews & nieces from her 2 (deceased) sisters & 1 (deceased) brother. Mom also has 6 grandchildren. (And she is a Great Grandmother!)
Mom spent her last days at a wonderful Assisted Care Facility called Ponte Vedra Gardens. Surrounded by a supportive & caring staff, Mom was well-liked & admired for her tenacity while living there. Her last morning at the facility, Mom was helping her fellow residents when God called her. The staff all told us that they will miss her dearly.
Mom’s memorial service will be held on Tuesday, 13 April at 1:00 at the Oaklawn Cemetery, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jax, Fl, 3220 with the viewing at 12:00 at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel.
Our Mother was a great & uncommon woman. She is & will be terribly missed.
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