Nettie Irene West's Obituary
On Monday, March 9th, 2020, God gently closed Irene’s loving eyes and whispered, “Job well done good and faithful servant”. Nettie Irene West was born April 6, 1931 in Hayti, MO to the union of Eddie Mac and Nettie Edmond. She was the youngest of 9 children and unfortunately, Irene lost her mother before she was a year old. Her eldest siblings would go on to raise her in Shaw, MS but she would move to St. Louis, MO where she attended a Catholic boarding school. It was here where Irene accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized.
Irene attended and graduated from Eisenhower High school in Blue Island, IL. After high school Irene followed her calling to become a Nurse where she was able to devote her love for helping others. She started her career at Cook County hospital in the Neonatal Unit and was there for over 25 years. She would go on to work at Michael Reese and St. Bernard hospital before her retirement in 1997.
Irene met the love of her life, Dallas West, in Chicago, IL. In 1953, they were wed and were blissfully married for 44 years! From their holy union came two lovely children: Dallas Jr., and Yvette. These children were their parents’ “pride and joy” and would never be too far from their reach if ever needed.
Irene had a heart of gold and always saw the good in everyone. She was a true “Mama Bear” when it came to her children and grandchildren and was very protective of her family. Irene was a family woman and she prided herself on doing everything she could for her family. She was present at every important event in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives. She was someone that you could always depend on and talk to about anything. Irene was the true definition of a strong woman and she was loved, respected, and recognized by everyone that ever knew her.
Irene leaves to cherish her memories her devoted daughter Yvette Jennings; her two grandchildren Samuel IV (Mechael) Jennings and Shauntai (Richard) Harvey; great-grandchildren Samuel V, Jairdyn, Skylar, and Reagan; as well as a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, loving relatives and great friends.
Irene was preceded in death by her parents, Eddie Mac and Nettie Edmond, her husband Dallas West; her son Dallas West, Jr.; her son-in-law Samuel Jennings, III; and her siblings Ruth, Bessie, Colby, Ode Mae, Eddie, Cleater, Gene, and Jeannie.
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