Mary Elizabeth West, 84, of rural Victoria, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025, in her home, which she and her husband Kenneth Jay West lovingly constructed together over their 55 years of marriage.
Born on August 10, 1940, she was the only daughter among five children of Paul and Audrey (Bass) Stevens. Mary is survived by her three children: Teresa (Michael) Welch of Knoxville, Illinois; Jay (Janelle) West of Victoria, Illinois; and Todd (Stacey) West of Victoria, Illinois. She is also survived by ten grandchildren: Sean (Kelly), Nathan, and Erin Welch; Tyler, Dylan, and Emily West; Eli, Camden, Leo, and Millee West; Heinrich Thaler, their German exchange student, is also considered a part of their family. Her brothers include David Stevens of Montgomery, Illinois; Stanley (Renée) Stevens of Orion, Illinois; Charles (Rosie) Stevens of Whitesboro, Tennessee; and John (Mary) Stevens of Marshalltown, Iowa.
She was referred to as “Mary-Ann” until her high school graduation from Little York High School in 1958, after which she attended Western Illinois University. Later, she relocated to Galesburg, where she had the opportunity to meet Kenneth, who would become the love of her life, at Northgate Lanes. Mary and Kenneth were united in marriage on September 5, 1965, sharing a life filled with love and shared dreams until his passing on August 27, 2021. Their lives shared a notable connection to the number three, as they were three years apart in age, raised three children who were also three years apart, and each departed this world three years apart.
Mary was a dedicated wife and mother, as well as a valuable partner in the farming business that she and Kenneth developed together. She played an integral role in the operation, and they collaborated closely, sharing ideas and making decisions jointly.
Her community involvement included Knox County Home Extension, Knox County Farm Bureau, and serving as an active 4-H parent. The enduring friendships formed with their lifelong family friends through card club and rural youth activities will forever be cherished. Among the early property owners in the Oak Run Lake Association, she played an integral role in coordinating events such as Halloween parties, boat parades, and 4th of July activities, earning her the affectionate title of “greased pig lady” among the residents. Additionally, she helped establish the annual firework display and frequently shared meals with family and friends at both the farm and the lake house, always ensuring there was room at her table.
Professionally, Mary worked part-time at the Galesburg Livestock Sale for many years. She served as Victoria Township Clerk and was subsequently elected as Supervisor, a position she held for twenty years. Furthermore, she contributed to her community as a member of the Williamsfield School Board.
Her greatest joy was her family, and she took immense pride in each and every one of them, who, in turn, held a deep pride for her.
A visitation will be from 4-7 p.m., Friday, January 24 at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. The funeral service will take place at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, January 25 at the funeral home, followed by the burial in Victoria Cemetery. Pastor Scott Cramer will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to the Victoria-Copley Fire Department or Knox County 4-H and Extension Foundation.
