James H. West's Obituary
DECATUR- James Henry West, 62 of Decatur, passed away at 8:37 am on Friday, May 7, 2010 after a long battle with cancer.
Graveside services to celebrate James' life will be held at 2 pm Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at Graceland Cemetery, conducted by Pastor Dave Brown officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the services from 1 ' 2 pm at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. The 'Flight Home' Ceremony will conclude services at the cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Central Baptist Church. Online condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawm.com.
James was born on November 28, 1947 in Osceola, AR., a son of William H. West and Claudia (Cole) West. James retired from PPG after 34 years and became an over the road truck driver for Martin Trucking. He was a bus driver for special events and taught Sunday School at the Central Baptist Church where he was a member. He enjoyed playing chess, CB radios, and computers and was an avid country music fan. Jim was a quiet and helping person. Jim married Karen Hadley on November 18, 1966 in Decatur.
Surviving are his loving wife of over 43 ½ years- Karen Hadley West, two sons- Matthew West, PHD and Kevin West both of Oklahoma, four grandchildren- Amber Skye West and Shianne West both of Decatur, Hayden Thomas and Jackson Matthew West both of Oklahoma, sister- Sarah Jane Penny of Decatur, and his sister-in-law Lilah West of Decatur. He also leaves behind a friend of fifty six years- James Littrell.
He was greeted in Heaven by an infant son- Thomas William, mother- Claudia Cole Sadler of Decatur, father- William West of Louisiana, brother- Marion West of Decatur and sister- Joyce Jeffries of Florida and niece Brenda West of Decatur.
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