Linnae Ayn West

Linnae Ayn West was born on April 16, 1952, and passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 29, 2026, after years of battling cancer. She was cared for by many kind and compassionate professionals at the WashU Oncology Group in St. Louis.

Linnae is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Gilbert Lee West of Marion, IL; three daughters: Shelley Ellis, Kristal West, and Kimberly Dirigo; seven grandchildren: Kristina Stanley, Kasey Ellis, Aspen Mechem, Sebastian Mechem, Clayton Dirigo, Kaylee West, and Joshua Mechem; and three great‑grandchildren: Rosalie Stanley, Meadow Stanley, and Jensen Stanley. She is also survived by her three sisters and two brothers: Brenda Pool, Linda Allen, Judy James, Donnie James, and Brian James.

She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Michelle West.

She and Gilbert were married on December 20, 1969. While raising their three children, she was an activist for women’s rights and served as an advocate for children’s welfare, all while working full time. She went on to earn both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Anthropology from SIU‑C and continued to fight for equality throughout her life. She shared her love of local history and environmental preservation with her children and grandchildren throughout her years. After retirement, she enjoyed nature walks and working in her garden with her husband, Gilbert, and her dog, RooDee.

She was a strong leader for her family. Her perseverance in doing what was right will live on for generations, and she will be forever remembered in the hearts of her family and friends.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Binkley-Ross Funeral Home. Private services will be announced at a later date.