Shari Marie West

Age 84, passed away peacefully at her home in Brambleton, VA with her family by her side on February 1, 2025. Shari was born in Omaha, NE on December 20, 1940, the daughter of Tom and Marie Ladenburg. She grew up in Morse Bluff, NE alongside her brother Art. She graduated from St. Patrick’s High School in Fremont and from the University of Nebraska with a teaching degree.

It was during college that she met Monte West of Lincoln NE. The couple was married a year later in 1963. The couple stayed in Lincoln after graduation, and Shari worked as an Elementary School teacher to allow Monte to pursue his MBA, just another example of her supporting the dreams of those about whom she cared deeply. After graduation, Monte got a job with National Homes Corporation, and the couple moved to Lafayette, IN. Shortly thereafter they welcomed their son Arjay to the family.

They moved to Northern Virginia and started their own homebuilding business together. Because of their relentless work ethic, they built West Homes into one of the most well-respected custom homebuilding businesses in Northern Virginia and went on to win numerous industry awards. They retired in 1996, which allowed them to spend more time traveling the world with their friends.

Shari’s Catholic faith was very important to her, and it was always a big part of her life. She and Monte were long time members of St. Mark’s Parish in Vienna, and more recently of St. Theresa’s in Ashburn. They volunteered delivering food to the needy for years and enjoyed bible study with their friends.

Shari’s greatest strengths were her kindness, her willingness to listen and her empathy. As a result, she had many friends whom she cherished and who loved her dearly. Her devotion to her friends was legendary, and those relationships, along with her family, were the true joys of her life. She would spend hours on the phone with her friends listening and giving, and receiving, counsel.

Shari leaves behind an abundance of cherished memories to those who survive her: her beloved husband Monte, son Arjay and his wife Holly, in addition to her two granddaughters Lucy and Milena. Also, her brother Art, his wife Kay and her niece Linda and nephew Tom.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, February 28, at 10:30AM at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 21370 Street Theresa Lane, Ashburn, VA 20147. The service will be immediately followed by a reception.