Teresa Ann West-Dehling

Teresa Ann West-Dehling, aged 68, of Marshall, Missouri, passed away on March 11, 2026. Born on May 2, 1957, she grew up attending Washington Grade School and graduated from Smith-Cotton High School.

Known to many as Terry, Teresa served her community with dedication as an Animal Control Officer for the City of Richmond, Missouri. Her deep compassion for animals defined both her professional life and personal passions. An avid animal lover, she cherished all creatures, especially cats, and filled her time with anything related to animal welfare, reflecting her lifelong commitment to the well-being of all God’s creatures.

Teresa is survived by her daughter and devoted caregiver, Afton-Amy Marie West, who also stood beside her as a companion alongside her sister Linda Coats (LeFevers). She is also survived by her brothers William (Billy) West and John Scott West, and her cherished grandchildren, Haley Brown, Alayna Derboven, Tristen Derboven, and Alessa Derboven-West. She was preceded in death by her mother, Wanda West-Blair, and her brother, Robert Joseph West Jr.

Her legacy of kindness, compassion, and dedication to animal welfare will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.