Holly Westbrook Obituary

Bayfield resident Holly Sue Westbrook died of multiple organ failure Friday, Nov. 25, 2011, in Durango. She was 57.

Ms. Westbrook was born Sept. 3, 1954, in Fort Collins and was raised by her father, Harry Downs. She grew up in Alamogordo, N.M., and graduated from high school in 1972.

She attended a few years at New Mexico State University and started her family at the age of 20 with the birth of her son, Daniel.

Ms. Westbrook worked many jobs including fire mitigation in the Alamogordo area until 1980, when she and her son moved to Durango.

For the next 14 years, she worked as a hostess and waitress at several area restaurants, including the Iron Horse Inn.

She moved to Bayfield in 1994 to pursue her love of farming.

"Holly was a farmer and mother first; all other jobs were to support her first two loves," her family said. "Holly also was a talented musician."

Ms. Westbrook, who played the guitar, keyboard and mandolin, performed at open jam sessions around Bayfield.

Ms. Westbrook is survived by her son, Daniel Felker, of Albuquerque; companion Jerry Conville, of Bayfield; an uncle; and several cousins.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Lavenia McCoy Public Library, 395 Bayfield Center Drive, Bayfield, CO 81122.

Online condolences may be sent at www.hoodmortuary.com.