Devera Elaine West, 65, quietly transitioned to her eternal home on early Saturday morning May 2, 2026, at her home in Woodford, VA. This had been her home since moving as she called it " to the country" in May, 2024.

Devera was born on November 29, 1960 in Washington, DC to the late Elliott and Gladys Bates West.

She attended primary and secondary schools in Washington, DC and graduated from Woodson High School. After graduation, she briefly attended Federal City College ( now UDC ) before deciding that was not for her. So Mama Gladys ( being the parent she was) promptly took her to take the Civil Service test. As a result, Devera enjoyed a total of 38 years of Federal Employment retiring in May 2016 in a supervisory capacity from the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Appellate Leave Activity. She continued employment until her death-working in Security, driving Uber, and most recently worked the polls at the Woodford VA precinct on April 21, 2026. Devera loved to travel-cruises and trips especially to Redskins ( oops!! Commanders ) Dallas games.

Devera accepted Christ at an early age at the Jerusalem Baptist Church, Washington, DC and remained a member  until her death. She sang in the choir and also served as a Trustee. After relocating to Virginia, she attended several churches in the area. On Sunday, April 12, 2026, she joined First Baptist Church, Woodford, VA based on Christian Experience. Prior to joining, she had already become an active member of the Woman's Ministry ( WOW-Women of Worth).

Devera was devoted mother and grandmother . Her son, Gary and her grandchildren meant the world to her. She loved all her family and made an effort to keep in touch with everyone. Devera was previously married to Oscar Smith.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her oldest brother, Elliott Franklin and his wife Janice.

Surviving  Devera are her son, Gary E.W. Smith; grandchildren: Toliyah, Tanlib, Tamia, Mecca, Ameena and Zara; brother Gerald ( Ricky) West ;nephews: Franklin, Damione (Kia) and their mother, Scarlet West; Jason (Chantae) and a host of other cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at First Baptist Church, 9262 Guinea Road, Woodford, Virginia, 22580, with a viewing one hour prior to the service.

Interment will follow in the Church Cemetery.