Sheriel Laverne West

On May 31, 1952, a bright light was born in Los Angeles, California. Sheriel Laverne Jackson was the firstborn to Clora and Harold Jackson and the beloved first grandchild on both sides of her family.

Growing up, Sheriel’s sparkling personality shone through her love of play. She adored her trusty sidekick doll, Chatty Cathy, and spent hours playing cowgirl with her uncles, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Her sisters, Lauren Elaine and Adrienne Angela, and brother, Duaine Craig were her partners in crime, and together they made their childhood a joyful adventure.

As Sheri (also known as She-She) grew, her passions and talents flourished. She attended Transfiguration Catholic School, Audubon Jr. High School, Henry Clay Jr. High School, and Washington High School, where she marched to the beat of her own drum - literally! - as a proud member of the Drum and Bugle corps. At the age of 16, Sheriel joined the Baha’i Faith and remained a devoted member of the Fountain Valley community for over 30 years.

While studying Business and Secretarial Courses, she met Larry West. They were married for 13 years and from that union, Vincent Eugene Jackson and Lauren Regina Sheriel were born. As a single mother, Sheriel excelled at ensuring her two “prized possessions” were well fed, exceptionally groomed, and instilled with top notch manners. Family highlights include watching movies, TV shows, dining out at Sizzler, and enjoying to R&B and Funk oldies.

Sheri’s gift for connecting with others made her successful in her careers as a Secretary and Special Education Teacher's Assistant. When life took a different turn due to epilepsy, she found joy in the simple things: keeping her house spotless, cooking delicious meals for her loved ones, and getting lost in her favorite Soap Operas. When her daughter became a mother, Grandma She-She took an active role in her grandchildren's lives. She treasured the moments spent with her parents, Clora and Harold, who became two of her best friends later in life.

Sheriel was known for her big, contagious smile. Even though she fought through spinal meningitis, epilepsy, third-degree burns, brain surgery and a kidney removal, she always managed to grin from ear to ear. Her macaroni and cheese was unforgettable, and her taste in music was impeccable. She loved life and was always front and center at any gathering.

She leaves to mourn her mother, Clora; her children Vincent and Lauren; her sister and brother, Adrienne and Duaine; grandchildren Aaliyah, Neryah, and Kenji; a nephew, Kennedy; a niece, Taylor, an aunt; two uncles; a host of cousins; in-laws; and many friends.