Mary Ellen West

Mary Ellen West, a beloved matriarch and dedicated servant of her community, peacefully passed away at the Renaissance Care Center on October 10, 2026. She was born on February 2, 1927, in Gainesville, Texas, to John and Monte Peyrot. Mary lived a life marked by love, faith, and tireless dedication to her family and community.

Mary was a proud graduate of Gainesville High School, class of 1944. She was a devoted wife to Bill West, whom she married on May 17, 1951. Together, they built a loving home. Their partnership spanned 70 wonderful years, during which they raised two children and shared countless memories.

A long-time and active member of Saint Mary’s Church in Gainesville, Mary found great joy in her faith. She was known for her love of church work, prayer and Bible study, and she contributed to her community with grace and humility. Mary’s passion for gardening was another reflection of her nurturing spirit, and she delighted in the beauty of nature.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, John and Monte Peyrot; her devoted husband, Bill West; her cherished daughter, Pamela White; her beloved grandson, Alen White; and numerous brothers and sisters. She leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience, survived by her son, John West and wife Roberta (Bobbie); her grandsons, Brian West and wife Brooke, Matthew White; Jerry Archibald and her great-grandchildren, Katlyn West, Bryston West, Kenly West, Braydon West, and Paisley West. She also welcomed the joy of a great-great-grandchild, Avery Ellis, into her life.

Mary’s life was a testament to hard work, love, and unwavering faith. Her warmth and generosity touched all who knew her, and her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Mary’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization close to her heart.

Pallbearers are Matthew White, Jerry Archibald, Bryston West, Brayden West, Jason Trammell and Tommy Trammell.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Katlyn West, Kenly West, Paisley West and Avery Ellis.

Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 10:30 am, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 825 N. Weaver Street, Gainesville, Texas.  Rosary Service will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 6:00pm, with visitation to follow from 6:30pm-8:00pm at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 1204 E. California Street, Gainesville, Texas.  Interment to follow service at New Resthaven Cemetery, Gainesville, Texas.