Dates
Marla Jean West went to be with her Savior surrounded by her family on Friday, December 13, 2024 at the age of 87.
She was born on October 22, 1937 to Matthew and Merna McDowell in Osceola, Iowa. Her family moved to Miles, Texas for a brief time during her early high school years. A trusted friend introduced her to the love of her life, Mitchell West, and they continued a long-distance romance even when her family returned to Iowa. They were married on September 1, 1957 and spent their first years in Lubbock while Mitchell completed his degree at Texas Tech. Mitchell’s military service took them to Germany for two years where they made lasting memories and life-long friends.
Mitchell and Marla moved back to Miles where they were faithful members of Miles Methodist Church for over 60 years. Marla was a devoted teacher’s aide at Miles Elementary and served as an Administrative Assistant at the Angelo State University Library. Although Marla filled several roles during her life, her favorite title was Grandma to her precious grand and great-grandchildren!! It was not uncommon for treasures and treats to fill the crib in the guest room, and she enjoyed lending her support at sporting and band events.
As a life-long Miles bulldog, Marla had a few trademarks that serve as anchors for her memory. She is most famous for her immaculate house and her ability to keep the boys’ athletic uniforms spotless. She maintained a terrible record with washing machines and dishwashers mostly due to her love and lavish use of soap and hot water. She loved long lists on huge pieces of paper, fancy packages with curled ribbon, and precious time with family. Since the West house was close to the school, their home was a familiar gathering spot for friends before sporting events. Everyone knew they could count on a cold drink and a wide variety of snacks before heading out to represent the red and white!!
Marla is survived by two sons and their spouses Michael and Renonia West of Miles and Alan and Amy West of Lubbock. Marla was blessed to enjoy her grandchildren Ryan West, Andrew and Amanda West and son, Alex, Austin and Katherine West and daughter, Eden, and Daniel and Sarah West Drzycimski. She also has two siblings: Janice Padgitt and husband, Dennis, and Frank McDowell and wife, Rita.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Mitchell West, and her parents, Matthew and Merna McDowell.
The family would like to thank Marla’s faithful caregiver and friend, Sophie Vela. Her love and attention to Marla’s care were huge blessings to us all. We would also like to express our deep appreciation for the staff at Regency House of San Angelo for their compassion and patience.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Miles Methodist Church.
Family and friends are invited to gather at Harper Funeral Home of San Angelo for visitation from 5:00-7:00 pm on Thursday, December 19, 2024. Services will be held at Miles Methodist Church on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 2:30 pm with a graveside service to follow at the Miles Cemetery.