Jo Ann Callicott West Obituary (1928 - 2011)

Grandma JoOn January 9, 2011, our loving mother, Jo Ann Callicott West, was reunited with her sweetheart. Due to natural causes, Mom passed away in her home surrounded by her loving family.Mom was born October 25, 1928, to Dora Grace Butterfield Callicott and Thomas Arthur Callicott. Mom fondly described her years growing up in Riverton, Utah, as idyllic and seemingly perfect. It was in the fifth grade that she met the love of her life, Jesse Alma West. Shortly after graduating from Jordan High School, they were married, September 2, 1948, in the Salt Lake Temple. They made their home in Roy, Utah for 10 years before moving to Northridge, California. During their 12 years in California mom began a career with Farmers Insurance. Following Jesse’s passing Mom returned to Salt Lake City in 1980. She continued her employment with Farmers Insurance completing a 25 year career.Mom was continuously active in the LDS Church, serving in various callings, and had a firm testimony of the gospel.Words cannot describe how greatly Mom will be missed. She was her family’s biggest booster, an excellent listener and wise counselor. One would leave her home feeling happy and uplifted. All whom she knew and met also enjoyed her fun sense of humor.Jo Ann loved to be surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her growing family anticipated their yearly camping trip to Redfish Lake, Idaho. Mom truly appreciated the beauty of the mountains and being with her family. You could also count on everyone gathering at her home every Sunday evening, to enjoy one another’s company and a dish of ice cream. Mom would often remark, “Look at how blessed I am.”Jo Ann is survived by her three daughters, and best friends; Lynnette (Jim) Gasik, Diane (Russell) Shurtleff, and Re Nae (Gary) Heaton, and daughter-in-law Lorie West. She is also survived by fourteen grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren. Preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jess; son, Mark; grandson, Parker; and sister, Carol.Special mention must be made of the staff from Ta-Lingi Caregivers who took extraordinary care of our Mom. The angels primarily responsible for her care, and our new friends, are Latu, and Pua. Words cannot adequately express our appreciation for the love and devotion shown to Mom.Funeral services will be held, 12:00 p.m. Monday January 17, 2011 at the Little Cottonwood 16th Ward, 6350 South Rodeo Lane. Friends and family may visit prior to the services from 10:30-11:45. Internment will be held at Bluffdale Cemetery.