Marjorie McArthur West

Retired teacher Services for Marjorie McArthur West were held Dec. 8, 2007, at Pleasant Springs Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Bobby Payne officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery with James F. Webb Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Mrs. West, 89, left this earthly life to be with her Savior on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007. She was born at the family home on Jan. 22, 1918. Mrs. West was a lifelong member of Lauderdale Presbyterian Church, where she taught children's Sunday school for many years. She retired from the Lauderdale County School System after 38 years as a home economics teacher. She proudly sponsored the Future Homemakers of America during her teaching career. She also taught science and adult education, often to returning war veterans. Mrs. West held a bachelor of science degree in home economics from Mississippi Southern College for Women (her beloved "Mississippi's Sweetest Collection of Women", now MUW) and an associate of arts certificate from Mississippi State University. She was an active member of the Pilot Club, the Garden Club and the Home Demonstration Club. Mrs. West kindly touched the lives of her students, friends and family. She leaves a legacy of love to all who knew and appreciated her gifts and talents. She was an avid reader, a crossword puzzle expert and proud to be both a fan and friend of Willie Nelson. Survivors include two daughters, Betsy McIntyre and her husband, David, and Marcy Lyon and her husband, Jimmy; three granddaughters, Ashley Carroll and her husband, Colin, and Elizabeth and Leslie Claire Lyon; and one grandson, Owen Forrest Carroll. She also leaves her pet cat, 'Lil Lady, who was her faithful companion for more than 12 years. She was preceded in death by her father, Dr. Ben McArthur, her mother, Clara McArthur, and her sister, Mrs. Myriam Gaines of Iuka. The family wants to acknowledge a special appreciation to two wonderful caregivers, Katherine Hudson and Sandra Mills. These kind ladies helped Mrs. West stay in her home and that of her daughter's during her last three years. She was loved and protected by these Christian women far beyond measure. We will always be gratefully humbled by their service and support – both to mom and to all the family members. They were especially loved by her. The family also offers special thanks to Kellie Kahveci of Baylor House Calls, and to St. Michael's Hospice. They contributed to making her last two years and final days with her family graceful, peaceful and comfortable. Pallbearers were David McIntyre, Jimmy Lyon, Colin Carroll, Ben Gaines, Floyd McIntyre, Stanley Suire, Glynn Ray Wedgeworth, Glynn Wedgeworth Jr., and Randy Wedgeworth. Honorary pallbearers were Enos Walker, Malcolm Newell, Willie Ray Wedgeworth and Billy White. Family and friends may sign the guestbook at www.jamesfwebb.com.