Bro. James Earl West

James Earl West, age 86, of Water Valley, MS went to be with his Jesus Friday, March 3, 2023 at his home in Water Valley, MS surrounded by his family. He was born February 28, 1937, in Hickory Flat, MS to the late Charlie and Merle (Kiddy) West.

James graduated from Hickory Flat High School in 1955, and after a couple jobs, he joined the United States Air Force. It was during this time serving our country that James married the love of his life, Jean Bradford and began their family. James was a multi-faceted man who possessed many talents and passions. One of these passions was to follow his call into ministry, which he did after leaving the Air Force and attending Blue Mountain College where he received a bachelor’s degree in ministry. From this point he and the family would serve the Lord in many different locations. After fifty-plus years of ministry, he and Jean would finally come to live in the Sylva Rena community where they retired.

James was a loving, dedicated and patient man who had a great sense of humor which was readily on display. When he wasn’t studying or preaching, James found pleasure traveling, camping, painting, piddling with cars, and playing music on numerous instruments which he taught himself, including bagpipes. His presence will be missed by all that knew him.

Visitation is planned for Monday, March 6, 2023, in the Gardiner Room of Seven Oaks Funeral Home from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Funeral Service will be held Tuesday March 7, 2023 at 10:00 AM with Bro. Truman Scarborough officiating. Burial will be in Sylva Rena Cemetery.

James is survived by his wife of sixty-five years, Jean West; his children; Brenda (Billy) Coleman, Linda Parrish, Greg (Kay) West;
six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by two brothers, Major West and Terry West.

In Lieu of flowers, the family requests donation be made to the Sylva Rena Cemetery Fund.