Hazel 'Jean' Spence West, 82 GEORGETOWN - Hazel "Jean" Spence West, wife of James A. (Joe) West Jr., passed away Saturday, March 27, 2010, after a lengthy illness. She was 82. Jean was well known and respected throughout the state. She served as Chairman of the Sussex County Return Day Committee for more than 30 years. She tried her hand in politics; twice running for the office of Mayor in Georgetown, and although unsuccessful, continued to keep a watchful eye on town meetings, events and issues affecting Georgetown residents for as long as her health permitted. Jean was the seventh child of the late William E. and Charlotte (Lottie) Wilson Spence of Smyrna, and later Dover. Upon graduation from high school, Jean began her career with the Diamond State Telephone Company. She was one of the first switchboard operators to begin working in downstate Delaware. She retired as a Supervisor in the Engineering Department, in January of 1985 with 34 years of service. Upon retirement, she became a member of Diamond State Telephone Company's Caesar Rodney council of Retired Pioneers. She was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church in Georgetown for over 60 years. She actively served as church lay leader, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Member of Pastor Parish Relations: President of the Sunday School Willing Strivers Class, Secretary of the Council On Ministries Board; Chairman for the Church's 95th Anniversary Celebration; taught Sunday school, and was a member of the church choir for many years, and in her younger years was often seen weeding the church yard. She was also a member of the Diamond State Telephone Company Pioneers Club; Charter member of the Business and Professional Women of Delaware, when they held their first meetings in a private home. She also served as secretary for the Georgetown Heritage Committee. In 1986 she was presented with a "Woman of the Year" award by the Sussex Central Student Council and Honor Society for her community involvement through Return Day and other civic activities, an award that she always cherished. Jean spent countless hours serving her community helping many people in need. Most of her life, she carried a camera with her, giving of her time and money to events, historical buildings, and many pictures of the town's people. She also delivered meals for over 25 years, and spent countless hours driving people to doctor's appointments, church and other events. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Virginia Spence, Mildred Spence Opdyke Long and Helen Spence Camac; and two brothers, Dr. William E. Spence and Robert Spence. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, James A. (Joe) West Jr.; three daughters and three sons-in-law, Bonnie W. Shea and husband Gary of Milford, Carol W. Collins and husband Bud, and Patricia W. Payne and husband Mickey of Georgetown; four granddaughters, Judi Collins Spencer and husband Dennis of Greenwood, Jo Ann Collins Evans and husband Kenny, and Ashley Payne, all of Georgetown, and Ami Clendaniel Rae and Ryan of Lincoln; two grandsons, Thomas H. Clendaniel II of Lincoln and James M. (Joe) Payne and wife Millie of Georgetown; four great-grandsons, Tat Penuel, Quinn Rae, Jordan Switherbank and Carter Payne; four great-granddaughters, Georgia Spencer, Aleah Swithenbank, Hailey Swithenbank, and Ellie Payne; one step-great-grandson, Evan Evans; her sister, Gladys Spence Vattilana and husband Joseph of Wilmington; and many nieces and nephews. Homecoming Service will be held at the Grace United Methodist Church, located on the corner of S. King St. and E. Market St. in Georgetown, Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at 2 p.m. Friends may call from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Pastor Mike McGee will officiate the service. Burial will follow in Union Cemetery, Georgetown. Contributions are welcome to Grace United Methodist Church, 7 S. King Street, Georgetown, DE 19947; the local Food Bank, or any homeless shelter. Arrangements provided by Short Funeral Services.