Jeannie Marie Beck

Jeannie Beck, 64, went to be at rest in the loving arms of her eternal Father on Wednesday, January 11, 2012, at her home in San Angelo. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 14, 2012, in First United Methodist Church Sanctuary, with Rev. Mark Deaton officiating and assisted by Rev. Nathaniel Hankins and Rev. Sheree Harris.

Jeannie Marie West was born on October 13, 1947 to Lewis and Frances West and lived most of her early years in McCamey before coming to San Angelo to attend college. Upon graduation, Jeannie taught English, Speech, and Drama at various schools in SAISD, retiring after 28 years. She then worked for Junior Achievement as the District Coordinator; for First United Methodist Church as Wedding Coordinator and was an instructor for home schooled students.

While in college, she married and gave birth to her one and only son and love of her life, John Shaffer, on August 23, 1971. Later while teaching at Lee Junior High, Jeannie was introduced to fellow teacher, Buddy Beck and it was love at first sight. They were married on December 21, 1989, at First United Methodist Church in San Angelo. Together they made a home, raised their children and shared their love of teaching and traveling. Some of Jeannie's fondest memories of her 23 years of marriage to Buddy was sharing early morning devotionals and daily Bible readings; and of their travels with their two dogs, Molly and Jinx in their RV to many wonderful places. Jeannie was always the "navigator" reading maps while Buddy followed her directions and drove!

Jeannie was a devoted and active member of First United Methodist. She will be remembered for her many contributions to the Sanctuary Choir where she was a frequent soloist. Jeannie also wrote many scripts for Cantata programs, the Live Nativity and Holy Week programs. Jeannie also served as a Sunday school teacher and in many roles with vacation Bible school. She helped start the Harmony Sunday School class which she taught and continued to attend through Skype even when she became homebound.

Jeannie was very gifted as a teacher and is fondly remembered by former students. She was extremely talented and shared her gifts with the entire community. She participated in community theater and helped advise others who were called upon to speak publicly. Jeannie was an avid reader and loved to discuss many different authors and their books. She was a charter member of the Books and Cooks Book Club. Jeannie was an active member of the Concho Country Emmaus Community and had served on a music team for a Walk as well as contributing help in many other areas. She was a member of the Son Raised Sisters Emmaus reunion group.

Jeannie was always generous with her time and was always willing to give support and a kind ear to others. Never turning down an opportunity to serve, Jeannie helped with Adopt-A-School, Meals for the Elderly, Relay for Life, Kids Eat and many other charitable organizations. Jeannie will long be remembered as a faithful follower of Christ, a loving wife and mother, a loyal daughter and sister, and an unbelievable friend to all.

Jeannie is survived by her husband of 23 years, Buddy Beck; her son, John Shaffer and wife, Shea of Raleigh, North Carolina; step-son Aaron Beck and wife Carrie of San Angelo; and step-daughter Tana Beck of Auburn Hills, Michigan; as well as her mother, Frances West; brother, Dave West and wife Lori, all of San Angelo. Jeannie is also survived by her sister, Elizabeth McKinley and husband Craig of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Also surviving Jeannie are her brother-in-law Joe Beck and wife, Cindy of San Angelo; sister-in-law, Gwen Harding and husband, Gaylon, of Coahoma, Texas; three precious grandchildren, Jon Vincent Vasquez, Emily Beck, and Mason Beck; three very special loved ones, Mark, Matt and Chris McDaniel; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Lewis West.

The family would like to thank Hospice of San Angelo, especially Crystal Hallmark, Debra Webb and Darla Teague, for the incredible loving care they have provided to Jeannie and Buddy; and to Jeannie's Angels who provided meals and cleaning when Jeannie no longer could; and to the family of First United Methodist Church for their prayers and support. The family requests that in lieu of flowers that memorials be given to Hospice of San Angelo. Family and friends may sign an online register book at johnsons-funeral home.com.

Arrangements under the direction of Johnson's Funeral Home, San Angelo, TX.