Mrs. Arlene Deborah (Baldridge) West

On the glorious day of May 21, 1935 in Bay City, Texas, Willie Mae Bouldin and William Arthur Baldridge Jr. were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Arlene Deborah Baldridge. She was the eldest of five. Arlene spent her formative years in Bay City, Texas, where she was an exceptional student. After graduating from Hilliard High School in 1953, she continued to further her education at Prairie View A&M University. In 1957, Arlene obtained her bachelor’s degree in Education, and later a Master of Education from Texas Woman’s University in 1972. On June 13, 1958, Arlene married the love of her life Atwell West. To this union three children were born, Atwell Spahn, Arnell and Andre’.

Arlene began her teaching career at Ferris County Public Schools. She also taught for Wilmer Hutchins ISD until she found herself with the Dallas Independent School District, as a kindergarten teacher in 1963. During her tenure with DISD, Arlene served in many roles which included developing the DISD curriculum. She was a member of the Campus Improvement Leadership Team (CILT), and CTA. Her impact on student development and achievement was impactful, as her students continuously excelled on state standardized testing. Arlene retired from teaching at Harrell Budd Elementary in May of 1997 after 35 years of service.

Arlene’s commitment to her family expanded into the community as she volunteered her time at Methodist Hospital, The Urban League, and Jack and Jill of America Inc. She continued as an Associate Mother, working diligently to ensure the success of the next generation. Arlene poured her talent into the annual coordination of the Jack and Jill Beautillion and other chapter events.

Arlene is preceded in death by her beloved husband Atwell West and her loving daughter Arnell Sherman. She leaves to cherish in her memory, two sons: Atwell S. West and Andre/Shu’ayb West; daughters-in-law: Adrienne West, Nadiyah West, DeSandra McDaniel; son-in-law: Eric Sherman; eight grandchildren: Monica Griffin, Jonquil Russell, Amber West, Andre’ West II, Jamila Sherman, Blake West, Jabari Sherman and Haynes West and a host of other relatives and friends.