Clara Ann West
Clara Ann West, 88, of Big Spring, Texas passed away on April 12, 2026. A visitation will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday April 17, 2026, at the Melton-Kitchens Chapel of Memories in Breckenridge, Texas, followed by a Funeral Service on Saturday April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Trey McDuff officiating.
Clara, known to everyone as “Grannie,” was born on December 1, 1937. Her life was rooted in deep faith, unwavering love for her family, and a lifelong passion for fishing, one of the greatest joys that defined who she was.
Clara married her first love, Howard “Son” Wesley McDonald, on February 5, 1954. The two eloped to Odessa, Texas, where they were married at the courthouse with their closest friends, later returning home to surprise their families. After a short time in Breckenridge, they built their life in San Antonio, Texas, where they raised their three children together. Howard “Son” passed away on April 30, 1975, and Clara carried on with remarkable strength and grace.
Following his passing, Clara moved back to Breckenridge with her children. No matter the season of life, her children were always her first priority.
While living in Breckenridge, Clara met J.W. “Dub” West, and the two were married on November 9, 1981, in Graham, Texas. Dub didn’t just marry Clara, he embraced her children as his own. Together they built a life rooted in hard work and partnership, founding J.W. “Dub” West Well Service, which Dub successfully operated for more than 30 years. Clara was an essential part of the business, faithfully keeping the books and supporting Dub behind the scenes.
Grannie was a true nurturer. She sewed all of her children’s clothing and lovingly crocheted a special blanket for each child. She never missed a football game and supported her children and grandchildren at every sporting event she could attend. She loved hearing about their games, cheering them on, and always finding moments to talk with them about Jesus. Grannie was the rock of the family, the glue that held everyone together, and the one everyone turned to for the very best advice.
She loved being outdoors, but fishing was her true passion. She could clean fish better than anyone and took pride in teaching her grandchildren how to bait a hook, cast a line, and be patient. Rockport, Texas, was her favorite place in the world; a place where she spent many late nights fishing, laughing, and soaking in the quiet peace of the water. Those fishing trips became some of the most treasured memories her family holds today.
Grannie was also known for her legendary fried fish, her beautiful gardens, and her fresh flowers, always creating warmth and comfort wherever she was.
Clara’s life was guided by her love for Jesus. She was a devoted member of Gunsight Baptist Church and was baptized in 1963 at First Baptist Church, alongside her sister-in-law, a moment she cherished deeply throughout her life.
Clara was blessed to spend her final years surrounded by all of her children in Big Spring, Texas, along with her furry companion Sassy, her loyal Blue Lacy; a treasured gift and constant companion.
Her beloved husband, J.W. “Dub” West, preceded her in death on March 10, 2019.
Waiting to welcome her at Heaven’s gate are her parents, Edna Rodgers and O’Dell Rodgers; her sister, Martha Lue Iles; and many other loved ones who went before her.
Clara is survived by her two daughters, Debbie McDonald Bagnall and Linda Cozart; her son, Ray McDonald; seven grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren. She and Dub also helped raise Austin McDonald and Jordan McDonald, both of whom she loved dearly.
Grannie will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her fierce love for family, and the many hours spent fishing, where she taught patience, created laughter, and left memories that will last forever.
Condolences can be left at meltonkitchens.com.
