Lorna Marie West, 88, of Opelika, Alabama, passed away peacefully on the morning of June 3, 2026 at Bethany House, in Auburn, Alabama.

Born on July 9, 1937, in Mobile, Alabama, Lorna devoted her life to education and service. She enjoyed a long and rewarding 30 year career as a classroom teacher with Opelika City Schools, where she touched the lives of countless students through her dedication, patience, and love of learning.

Outside the classroom, Lorna was an avid birder who found great joy in nature and the beauty of God’s creation. She logged with many friends over 700 birds in her travels here in United States and abroad. Lorna was a faithful member of Trinity Methodist Church in Opelika, Alabama, since 1980 and loved her church family dearly.

Lorna is survived by her beloved companions, Jack and Ivan, her cherished teacup poodles; her nephew, Dana West, and family; and many friends, former students, and fellow church members who will remember her kind spirit.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, June 9, at 9:00 a.m. at Trinity Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika, Alabama. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Pine Crest Cemetery in Mobile, Alabama, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved brother, Hugh, and her parents. Lorna has memorialized her life’s work through her gifts to honoring her brother, Hugh West and his wife, Chan, as they proudly served in the United States Air Force.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Trinity Methodist Church or the Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuary. Please contact Earl.TrinityChurch@gmail.com and for more information.

Lorna’s life was marked by devotion to her faith, her students, her friends and the natural world she loved so deeply. She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.