Nettie E. (West) McGowen, 80, of New Bedford died Saturday October 9, 2010 at Our Lady's Haven. She was the wife of John J. McGowen, Jr.

Born in New Bedford, the daughter of the late Bertram C. and Stanislawa (Tenczar) West, she lived in New Bedford all of her life.

Mrs. McGowen was formerly employed at St. Luke's Hospital for many years until her retirement.

She had been a volunteer at the Zeiteiron Theater.

Survivors include her husband; five children, Michael of New Bedford, James of New Hampshire, Nancy Meehan of Indiana, Daniel of New Bedford, and Christopher of West Wareham; 13 grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

She was the mother of the late Mark McGowen.

Private funeral arrangements are by the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.