A woman with a huge heart who loved animals
WAKEFIELD — Christine M. “Chris” West, 68, a resident of Wakefield, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, Feb. 7, 2022.
Chris was born in North Adams on Aug. 27, 1953, and was one of three children of the late Edward J. West and Dorothy E. (Moore) West. She was raised in Clarksburg, graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in North Adams, and from UMass-Amherst. She received her J.D. from St. Louis University School of Law and worked in the legal department for Kemper Insurance Co., specializing in workers compensation litigation for over 20 years.
Chris was a woman with a huge heart. In her own way, she did her best to be present for others and open her home to those in need. She provided loving and tender care for her family, friends, and the many rescue animals that she adopted over the years. With a passion for animals, she cared deeply for animal welfare and adopted numerous cats and dogs from local shelters. Most recently, her dear schnauzers, Emma and Bobby and her cat, Papa held a special place in her heart.
Chris attended the Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, where she was married. In her free time, she enjoyed attending books clubs, swimming, and loved music and singing. Chris will be missed, but will be remembered for her caring nature, and willingness to help.
Chris married her best friend, the late Thomas Jackson “Jack” Potts III, on Oct. 8, 1988. They shared many happy and adventurous years together. Jack passed away in 2012.
Chris leaves behind two brothers: Robert West and his wife, Ann, of Stamford, Vermont; and Edward “Joe” West and his companion Denise McConnell of Florida. She also leaves her foster child, Shayna Perechodiuk of Lynn and many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends were invited to gather for visiting hours at the Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, 273 Vernon St., Wakefield on Tuesday, Feb. 15 from 12:30-1:30 p.m., followed by her funeral service at 1:30 p.m. Gifts in memory of Chris may be made to Paws Wakefield, 411 Lowell St., Wakefield MA 01880, or to Northeast Animal Shelter, 347 Highland Ave., Salem MA 01970. To sign an online tribute, visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
