V. Maxine West

Verian "Maxine" West, lovingly known as Little "Crowbar," passed away at Center Point Medical Center In Independence, Mo. on June 6, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on October 2, 1931, in Polk County near Halfway, Missouri. Maxine lived a vibrant and full life marked by creativity, resilience, and an infectious zest for living. Maxine graduated from high school in Halfway, Missouri, and pursued her passion for beauty and style at Hillcrest Beauty College in Springfield. Her early career began at Fern’s Beauty Shops in Buffalo, Missouri, where she worked for two years before moving to Kansas City. There, she brought her talents to “The Beauty Door” on the Country Club Plaza. Ever ambitious and determined, Maxine later joined Western Electric in Lee’s Summit to save money toward her dream—opening her own salon. That dream became a reality with the founding of Maxine’s Beauty Boutique in Blue Springs, Missouri. Her salon was more than a business; it was a gathering place filled with laughter, stories, and the warmth of her personality. Maxine's life was deeply rooted in faith and family. She was baptized in the Pomme de Terre River near Walnut Ridge Missionary Church in Van, Missouri—a church she attended with her parents and brother. After relocating to Independence to be closer to her children, she attended Blue Springs Christian Church when able. In her kitchen she would lovingly show you her adorable T-towel sporting a saying she sometimes practiced , “I love Jesus... but I cuss a little,” a phrase that perfectly captured her spirited blend of reverence and humor. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Darhl Von West; her parents Leonard “Crowbar” Vire and Cordia Opal (Hankey) Vire; two brothers, Harold Vire and Rex Dean Vire; and two sons, Ricky Devon West and Donald Allen White. Maxine is survived by one son, Thomas West (Theresa); four daughters: Sharon West (Robert) of Independence, Missouri; Vonda (West) Williams of Independence, Missouri; Sandra Clegg (George) of Fayetteville, Arkansas; and Sherri Brower (Scott) of Pleasant Hill, Missouri. She also leaves behind eleven grandchildren, Thirty great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her dearly. Beyond her professional accomplishments and devotion to family, Maxine embraced life with unmatched enthusiasm. She enjoyed horseback riding, ceramics, sewing, painting, traveling, gardening, mowing, dancing—and had a special fondness for collecting Barbies and all things Elvis Presley. Whether going out for a bite to eat or texting and chatting with friends on the phone, Maxine brought joy and positivity. A cherished friend and confidant to many, Maxine was known for her immense kindness and unwavering loyalty. Her witty banter and sense of humor lit up every room she entered. She loved sharing stories—whether about her adventures as a hairdresser and salon owner or childhood escapades with her brother Rex—and never met a stranger she couldn’t turn into a friend. Her genuine care for others shone through in every interaction. With an open heart and an ever-ready laugh, Maxine lifted spirits effortlessly. Her legacy is one of kindness, resilience, laughter, and love—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Though Maxine has departed this world, her spirit remains alive in the countless memories shared by those who loved her. We are forever grateful for the time we had with her and the profound impact she made on our lives. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. Services are scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025. Visitation will be held from 2-3 pm with formal funeral service beginning at 3 pm. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar, Missouri. Arrangements are under the direction of Cantlon-Otterness & Viets Funeral Home, Buffalo, Missouri.

V. Maxine West

October 2, 1931 - June 6, 2025