Mother Olivia West, affectionally known as "Katiebee" was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She passed away peacefully at the age of 71 on October 16, 2024, in her hometown of Little Rock, Arkansas.
Born on February 3, 1953, to George W. and Annie Lee(Norris) West, in Dermott, Arkansas. Olivia grew up in a close-knit family where she learned the values of kindness, compassion, and hard work. She was a proud graduate of Chicot County High School. Olivia dedicated her life to the aid and care of the elderly as she earned her certification as a nursing assistant and served in that capacity for over 30 years.
Olivia developed a love for God at an early age while attending Calvary Baptist Church in 1962. The love of God followed her as she started her adult life by moving to Little Rock, Arkansas in 1974. Where she was wed to James Marshall Sr. on December 15, 1976. Olivia joined Tabernacle of True Witness Ministry under the teaching of the late great Bishop F.Z. Hill and Joanna Terry-Hill. She became sanctified and filled with the holy ghost and was determined to spread the Kingdom message to souls everywhere. Olivia went on to become one of the founding members of God Care We Care House of Prayer in 1998, under the leadership of the Late Willie Brown, and Co-Pastor Joyce Brown. She served that ministry as the Head of the Usher Board & Church Elder for nineteen years. Olivia went on to join Evangelist Temple House of Refuge for All Nations Church of God in Christ on February 26, 2017. There she was appointed as church Mother & served faithfully until her illness prohibited her from attending in early 2023. She remained faithful by watching the live broadcast streamed weekly.
God gifted Olivia with the gift of prophecy and she would frequently host nights of prayer in her home with her prayer partner the Late Betty Lovelace. Olivia was known for speaking prophetic words into the lives of many people that are still manifesting to this day. She believed in living a Holiness lifestyle and exhibiting the love of God to everyone she met. Though she had many health challenges over the years she never used that as an excuse to slack on her responsibilities to God, her family, or the Church. Olivia had a knack for decorating & would be responsible for the setup at many of the family functions. She enjoyed watching Western movies and spending time with her family and friends.
Olivia had a love for children & opened up her home as a foster parent for kids of all ages for many years to where she adopted Beverly Pearson-West in 2005.
Mother West enjoyed volunteering her time with the S.R. Chambers Outreach program to help those in need. Her unwavering faith and dedication to service were an inspiration to everyone who knew her.
Mother West is survived by her five children, Mary Sanders(Abe), Naquita Marshall, Beverly Pearson-West, Rodney White Sr.(Carolyn), and Rickey White Sr.; Sisters: Jeannie Cromwell-West, Junitha West, Joyce-Ann West, and Louvenia West-Alexander(Lee) all of Little Rock, Arkansas; Brothers: Ralph West(Felecia), of Durham, North Carolina, Roy V. West(Jean) of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Donald Ray West, of Memphis Tennessee.; Eleven grandchildren and Eleven great-grand children. She leaves to cherish a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Terry & Jake West.
Mother West will be remembered for her generous spirit, her love of family, and her commitment to God.
Guestbook
Mary planted a tree for Olivia.
Sending heartfelt prayers and condolences to the West family. Praying God will comfort each of you, as you remember and cherish ALL the shared memories of your beloved, Olivia West. Blessings and Love❤️ Joyce Grandy and family
Sending love, hugs and prayers to Olivia’s family. As a classmate and graduating together in 1971; I consider myself more of a sister/friend. I think I can speak for the whole Class of 1971 that she was a sweet “down to earth” person; liked and loved by all. Our families go way back to the old days of going to the cotton fields together, working in the hot sun but still having fun. I will always treasure our time together as young girls growing up in Dermott. I am so happy to hear about her relationship with God which should inspire all of us to keep striving until He calls us to our Heavenly Home. Rest in peace and love my dear sister/friend. 💕💕🙏🏾🙏🏾💐💐
Myrtle Griffin sends their condolences.
Constance Lovelace purchased flowers in honor of Olivia.
My love and condolences to the family I grew up with Katie B in Dermott; we attended the same high school and both of us were members of the “Mighty Tigers” cheerleading team! We enjoyed so many exciting experiences on that team. We also spent many days fishing on the bayous and lakes with my family; however, the best part of fishing for us was the snacks! I can’t think of anyone who once they met Katie B did not love her! She was a kindhearted person with an extreme sense of humor. The battle is over now, my friend, and the victory is won; rest in Jesus!