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Gladys West Obituary
Born Gladys Mae Brown on October 27, 1930, in Sutherland, Virginia, West grew up on a small farm in a sharecropping community. She excelled academically, graduating valedictorian of her high school class and earning a scholarship to Virginia State College (now Virginia State University). She completed a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1952 and returned for a master's degree in mathematics in 1955.
Before entering government research, she taught mathematics and science in Virginia's public schools.
In 1956, West joined the U.S. Naval Proving Ground (later Naval Surface Warfare Center) in Dahlgren, Virginia, as a programmer and mathematician. She was only the second Black woman ever hired there, and one of only a handful of Black professionals employed at the facility. It was there she met fellow mathematician Ira West, whom she married in 1957; they had three children.
Throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, West used large-scale computers to perform complex calculations and to develop extremely precise mathematical models of the Earth's shape. These models were essential to the development of satellite geodesy, the scientific foundation underpinning modern GPS technology.
Despite the significance of her contributions, West's role remained little-known outside professional circles for decades. Recognition grew in later years, especially after her contributions were highlighted by members of her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, and through broader media coverage.
West received several honors late in life, including induction into the United States Air Force Hall of Fame in 2018. That same year, she was named Female Alumna of the Year at her alma mater, and the BBC included her in their annual "100 Women" list. Later, an elementary school in Fredericksburg, Virginia was named after her.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: Bob Brown/Richmond Times-Dispatch via AP)
32 Entries
Shirley Komack
February 27, 2026
Thank you!
Nora Jamison
February 20, 2026
I thank you so much for inventing the GPS system and everything wonderful things you´ve done to make the world a safer place deepest condolences to the entire family
Clara Chapman
February 17, 2026
Thank you Gladys. Your interest in mathematics were crucial part of our GPS. "One of the Hidden Pioneers".
AUTHURINE S SHERMAN
February 15, 2026
Thank you my sista for being a part of Black Americans History. You don't know me and I didn't know you until someone I do know sent this obituary May you rest in peace. Again thank you for your contribution to BAH.
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M. Jones
February 12, 2026
May the God of all comfort be with the family during this difficult time.
Mr. Jr.
February 12, 2026
My Condolences, mathematician wonderful, inspiration to all.
Claudette Brown
February 8, 2026
My sincere condolences to the family
Marjorie R Cole
February 6, 2026
Condolences Thank You For Your Service Resting Well
Carolyn Wynn
February 4, 2026
Condolences to her family during this sad time. Thank you Dr. West! Your sorority sisters saw your accomplishment and they knew you need to be recognized. Black history!
Sally Keys
February 3, 2026
What a Beautiful Woman And such accomplishment she contributed to the world, I Wish everyone knew about her! May she rest in Peace
Paula Regan
February 2, 2026
Unfortunately I did not know Gladys but reading all the memories I feel like I know a little and your family your daughters must be so proud I know for a fact you keep their memories alive by talking about it good and bad.Math I always struggled with even my daughters I sure wish I knew you I would have hired you to tutor me I always struggled especially with chemistry but I did it. My condolences to your family God bless you all and thank you for sharing
MA Simpson
February 1, 2026
To the Family; It is a very difficult time right now. Because of the shared memories of Mrs Gladys West. These past years were wonderful experiences and will remain with you for your lifetimes. Remember the joy and happiness always.
Dr. Gwendolyn West
February 1, 2026
Dr. Gladys M. West
A Godly Woman who was not only notable for her invention of the GPS but one who possessed wisdom in Christ. She left a universal legacy that helped all to navigate safely to their destinations on earth as well one who possessed Godly character to their Heavenly Home.
Carl Scott
February 1, 2026
For all that she's done in her life we salute you and ur family for being an example for the world to emulate..Rest in your saviors arms.
Diane Harrison
January 31, 2026
My condolences to the family, I pray that the God of comfort give you the comfort you need at this time.
DE
January 31, 2026
Deepest sympathy to the West´s family and friends during this time of grief and sorrow. May all the accomplishments of your loved one always be remembered.
Shanell Thomas
January 27, 2026
TY for All The Good You Shared & Contribute To The World
Roderick Richardson Sr.
January 27, 2026
Mrs. West thank you so much for all of your contribution to this world, society, and knowledge of your mathematical skills that helped change the world. May you rest in peace and God have mercy on your soul we love you for all you´ve done. Mr. Roderick Richardson Sr. Houston Texas.
KimReed
January 25, 2026
Thank you for all your knowledge that you shared with the world .
My sincere condolences and sympathy
May you rest in peace Mrs. West
Dorisse Burkley
January 25, 2026
Thank you for your contributions in mathematics that led to GPS that is used worldwide today
Dorisse Burkley
Nancy Studebaker
January 24, 2026
Thank you Gladys for sharing your
stupendous gifts with this world!
Love you!
You rock!!
Nancy Crawley Studebaker
Gabriel
January 24, 2026
Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time. May you find comfort in the love and support of those around you and may the cherished memories you hold bring you peace and solace.
Chris Webb, Sr
January 24, 2026
I´m extremely sorry for the loss of such brilliant person. Please, accept my deepest sympathy to her family, her work and accomplishments will always live on because of her focus and dedication to what she loved, including people. The Almighty´s Great memory can and will comfort and strengthen you in this difficult time you are experiencing. Please consider, Luke 20:38, " He is the God of the living, not the dead, for they all are living to Him".
Wilma Williams
January 23, 2026
Thank you for all your accomplishments. We appreciate you. Rest in peace.
Wanjiku Kamau
January 22, 2026
Thank you for showing us that it's possible for back girls! Celebrations for the gift your life continues to be even after you rest!
Wanjiku,
Nairobi Kenya
Jean Inge
January 21, 2026
Rest in Peace, know that you made a difference in the lives of many,
that never knew your greatness.
Ann Albertson
January 21, 2026
What a beautiful mother and father you were blessed with. I remember seeing them every Sunday as we passed each other coming from the Base chapel to the Annex. We nicknamed them "the happy little couple!"
Percy Stepp
January 21, 2026
To The Family , of Mrs. Gladys West , God again Has Chosen The Best
To Be With Him ,He Has Calculated The Best Time To Call Gladys Home ,
He Has Never Failed Us Yet And He Is Not About To Start , May She Rest In God , Prayers Are Being Sent Your Way , God Bless You And God Keep You . Minister : Percy Stepp Atlanta Ga.
Peter Kolakowski
January 21, 2026
Gladys was a treasure. It is an end of an era of many memories for many. Condolences and prayers to the family.
RB
January 21, 2026
Such a brilliant mind whose contributions to technology and GPS, while not very well known were still extremely important. Her intelligence and hard work proved to be valuable. Heartfelt condolences to the Brown and West families, so very sorry for your loss. May God be with you in this time of your loss.
Carol Sparbel ;-)
January 20, 2026
Dear ones,
Grief never ends but it changes. It is a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness nor a lack of faith. It is the price of love. There are so many things you must be feeling right now. I trust what you feel most is remembered, loved and held close in many hearts because you are.
Long ago, my daddy taught me that if we keep the happy memories of our loved ones alive, they can never really leave us. I have tested this many times in my more than 80 years and found it to be true. I am sure you have many happy memories of Gladys. I know I do! Share them with each other. Laugh, cry and remember. It will keep her close.
Then, go on and continue as she did, by following Colossians 3: 23-24. God will smile and you will be blessed.
Carol Sparbel ;-)
Wayne Frese
January 20, 2026
My condolences! Wayne F. Frese
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