Kerry Lynn West

To Kerry, joy bloomed from life’s simple pleasures.  Tearing out the thin yellow pages of a phone book, soaking in warm baths, and listening to music were her favorite rewards. She was blessed with a beautiful smile, and this was her language of love.  Although she was non-verbal, Kerry said plenty with her giggles and grins.  With a pleasant disposition and expressive face, she loved to be amused with jokes and lavished with personal attention. At age 55, Kerry passed away, leaving this world on Thursday, April 21, 2022, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kerry was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, on November 5, 1966, to parents Kent West and Patty Vaughn.  Kerry lived with her parents until she moved to the Mentor Indiana Group Home, when she was 33 years old. Both her mother and father provided a variety of enjoyable activities away from the group home.  One of Kerry’s favorite outings was enjoying sunny days at the pool; she wished every day could be like those warm summer afternoons. Life was not easy for Kerry, but she was perceptive and alert to the activities around her.  She thrived on attention and listened intently when others shared enthusiastic stories.  Saturday and Sunday afternoons were spent with family; their strong support encouraged Kerry to practice independence and communication with others in her own ways. Kerry attended Noble Services of Indiana’s day program for many years before transitioning to Boone County ARC for day services. Kerry’s persistence and desire to please people empowered her to complete many tasks independently.  Her work often included peg boards, puzzles, and matching activities, but her favorite days involved staff companionship during community outings.  Kerry was the “life of the party” participating in the Hollis Adams Thursday evening square dancing events at Hilltop School. Kerry was preceded in death by her mother, Patty Vaughn, and infant sister, Angie West. Kerry is survived by her father, Kent West; brother, Andrew “Andy” West; and many other extended family members and beloved friends. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 28, 2022, 11:00AM at the Flanner Buchanan-Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Good Shepherd Chapel), 9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46250.   Service at 12:30 PM, burial will follow immediately after. To express condolences please direct any donations to the Hollis Adams Foundation, 3535 Kessler Blvd. East Dr., Indianapolis 46220 (www.hollisadams.org).