Opal West

Opal Elaine West, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was 87 years old. Elaine was born on August 6, 1938, in Howard County, Missouri, on her grandparents' farm. She was the daughter of Herbert and Ethalene Palmer and grew up with a deep connection to family and the land that shaped her early years.

Elaine graduated from Fayette High School in 1956, a time when she demonstrated remarkable courage and independence. At 18, she moved to Columbia, MO, and worked for about a year, setting the stage for a life of self-reliance and determination.

In 1957, Elaine married Don Besgrove, and together they had four children: Randy, Greg, Dana, and Mary. The family moved to Kirksville in 1968, where Elaine embarked on a long and fulfilling career. She began working with Head Start and then promoted to Director of the Community Action Agency. Elaine then promoted to Director of Missouri Association for Community Action, a role she dedicated herself to with passion and commitment. She worked there for many years, retiring at the age of 75. Throughout her life, Elaine was driven by a sense of purpose and a commitment to helping others. Even when she was recognized for her hard work, she was already focused on ways to end poverty. Her legacy will be remembered for her dedication to dignity, decency, and opportunity for all.

Elaine's strength and resilience were evident through every chapter of her life. After divorcing Don in 1974, she met the love of her life, Jerry West, and they married in 1981. Together, they shared a life filled with love, challenges, and blessings. They wondered how they would put seven children together into one family. It turned out perfect, as it was meant to be. Elaine and Jerry moved to Jefferson City in 1985, where they became active members of First Christian Church. Elaine's life was marked by the courage to stand up when it mattered, her optimism even in the face of hardship, and a constant curiosity about people and the world around her. She loved her church family and dedicated many hours to reach those in need in her community.

Elaine and Jerry faced unimaginable heartache with the loss of two of their children, Randy and Tony, but their faith and love for each other carried them through. Over the years, they were blessed with 18 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren, whom Elaine adored with all her heart. She wanted everyone to know her family and she wanted to know theirs! Jerry passed away in 2020, but Elaine's unwavering love for him and their shared life continued to shape her journey.

In 2023, Elaine moved to Shawnee, Kansas, to be closer to her family, where she spent her final years at Brookdale Senior Living. Even in her later years, Elaine remained an inspiration, touching the lives of everyone she met with her warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit. She made new friends and adored the staff who cared for her. Their unconditional love was obvious in her last days.

Elaine is survived by her five children: Greg Besgrove, Dana Wilkins (George), Mary Lewey (Rick), Joanna Tallman (Patrick) and Jenise Soyster (Rob); her two daughter-in-laws: Mary Besgrove (Randy) and Tracey West (Tony) her 18 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren; her brother, Wayne Palmer (Carolyn); and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Randy, her stepson Tony, her great-granddaughter Scarlette, and her beloved husband Jerry.

Elaine's life was one of quiet strength and unshakeable faith. Her dedication to family, her commitment to serving others, and her ability to always see the good in the world will remain her enduring legacy. She is loved, she is missed, and her memory will forever be cherished.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported them with thoughts, prayers, and love during this difficult time.

Friends and family will be received from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday September 27, 2025, at First Christian Church in Jefferson City, officiated by Pastor Michael Dunn. Service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Family will have a private burial.

In lieu of flowers, her family ask that donations be made in Elaine's name to Missouri Community Action Network, KC Hospice & Palliative Care, or First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, Jefferson City. Donations not made in person may be sent c/o Houser-Millard Funeral Directors.

Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St.; Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com