Lynn West died Oct. 19 to complications from Crohn’s disease. Ms. West fought the disease for more than 40 years before dying at her home in Washington, D.C.

Ms. West was born on April 3, 1948 in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. After receiving her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Ms. West taught middle school in Frederick and Montgomery counties, Md. From 1981 until 2002, Ms. West lived in Wellesley and devoted most of her professional career to development work for non-profit organizations that benefit animals, youth education and health care.

Those who knew her best repeatedly emphasized that Ms. West had an uncanny ability to make people laugh regardless of the situation.

Even more important to Ms. West were the summers she spent on the Vineyard. Ms. West cherished the Vineyard and all that the Island represents.

Ms. West was predeceased by her father, John, her mother, Betty, and her brother, Kevin.

Survivors include her son, Christopher, who is a student at Georgetown University Law Center.

Memorial arrangements are by Joseph Gawler Sons, Washington, D.C. Please make gifts in lieu of flowers in Ms. West’s name to Martha’s Vineyard Community Services, 111 Edgartown Road, Vineyard Haven MA 02568.