August 23, 2025, 88, Goldsboro —
Ellen Gray West, 88, was welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior early Saturday morning, surrounded by the love of her family. Ellen was born in Wayne County on June 16, 1937, to the late Raymond and Ruby Long Gray. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 42 years, Rev. T.C. West, Jr.; her brothers, Jesse Raymond Gray and William Michael Gray; and her sisters, Treva Gray and Jackie Mewborn.
A woman of deep faith, Ellen lived her life in service to God and others. She retired from Wayne County Public Schools after many years of faithful service, first as a teacher and later as a guidance counselor at Eastern Wayne High School. Her compassion, wisdom, and dedication touched the lives of countless students, leaving an enduring legacy of encouragement and guidance.
Alongside her husband in ministry, Ellen joyfully embraced her role as a minister’s wife, supporting his calling and sharing her own gifts within the Methodist church. A talented musician, she served as choir director and pianist in many congregations. Her greatest joy came from directing the Youth Choir, where she poured her love into children and young people, inspiring them to lift their voices in praise. Ellen’s heart for children and her devotion to nurturing others reflected her lifelong love for Christ.
Above all, Ellen’s greatest treasures were her family. She cherished her role as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, surrounding her loved ones with prayer, encouragement, and unconditional love.
A graveside service celebrating Ellen’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 25, 2025 at Fairview Cemetery in LaGrange, with Rev. Joseph Franklin officiating. Following the service, the family will greet friends at the cemetery.
Ellen is survived by her children, Thad West and wife, Barbara; Dianne Johnson; Tim West and wife, Jodi; and Chris West and wife, Paula. She was the proud grandmother of Elizabeth Green and husband, Ben; Hanna Diffenbaugh and husband, Ethan; Ty West and wife, Sydney; Clay West, Tate West, Morgan Johnson, Grace West, Anna West, Emalia West, Coy West, Cade West, and Brylee West; and great-grandmother to three precious great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Patsy Boyette and husband, Mike; and sisters-in-law, Eula Gray and Brenda Perry.
Her life was a beautiful testimony of faith, family, and service, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in her memory to Maynard Children’s Hospital at ECU Health Medical Center, P.O. Box 8489, Greenville, NC 27835.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
