Mary Lou Jones West

Mrs. Mary Lou Jones West, age 77, a resident of Auburndale, passed away Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center surrounded by family. Mrs. West was born November 20, 1947, in Bartow, Florida to James Elwood and Janie Atrice Jones. She was a lifetime Polk County resident, graduated from Auburndale High School Class of 1965 and graduated with her bachelor’s in education from Polk Community College & Florida Southern College. Mary Lou retired after 30 years as an Elementary School Teacher (Central Elementary & Crystal Lake Elementary), a past PARA Teacher and was a member of the Teacher’s Association. She was a past member of Orange Street Church of Christ in Auburndale and a member of Central Church of Christ in Winter Haven. Mary Lou enjoyed vacationing every year to North Carolina with her husband, brother-in-law & sister-in- law. She was preceded in death by her parents and 3 brothers – Carlton, Howard & Douglas. Mary Lou is survived by her loving family, husband of 59 years – Gaylon West; son – Darin (Carmen) West; daughter – Tracy Mathis; 3 brothers – Tommy Jones, Mark Jones & Earl (Linda) Jones; 4 grandchildren - Britt, Zachary, Trevor & Lizett. Funeral services will be held 5pm Friday, August 8th at Kersey Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 4pm at the funeral home.