Lawrence Edward West, Sr (Bud)

Lawrence Edward West, Sr. “Bud,” beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home on October 5, 2024, at the age of 96. Born on January 30, 1928 on the old homestead to James William West and Eddie Belle Autry West, he dedicated his life to his family, faith, and the land he cherished.

A devoted tobacco farmer for many years, Bud nurtured both crops and community with the same passion. As a deacon at New Bethel Baptist Church, he served his congregation with unwavering faith and commitment, providing guidance and support to those around him.

He proudly served in the Army with the 1259 Engineer Combat Battalion, contributing to his country during a pivotal time in history. His legacy continues through his children and grandchildren who carry forward his values of hard work, kindness, and resilience.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and community.

He is survived by his son Lawrence West, Jr.(Renn), daughter Donna West, and stepdaughter Karen Kaufman (Dave). Grandchildren: Shannon Trains, Nicole (Sarah) West, Meghan (Todd) Coleman, Lawren (J.T.) Phillips, Luke (Kaylyn) West, and Joshua (Angel) Lewis. Great Grandchildren: Bo Coleman, Hardy West, Piper Phillips, Bailey Coleman, Sutton West, Ty Phillips, Briggs West, and J.W. Lewis. Special nieces and nephews who came to live with them. After the death of their parents- Richard Jones, Sonya Jones Peel, Chad Jones, and Alan Jones.

Preceded in death by his parents James William and Eddie Belle Autry West; his late wife Ethlyn Vann West; mother of his children, Janelle Palmer West; daughter, Jill West; stepson Johnny Vann; and siblings Willie Belle West Bass, Audrey West Jones, Rupert West, Shelby West, Chloe West Nicolini, and James West.

A visitation will be on Tuesday, October 8th, at 10:00 A.M. at New Bethel Baptist Church followed by graveside services at 11:00 A.M. Officiated by Rev. Ed Green with remarks by Luke West. Pallbearers will be Lynn McCracken, Keith Davis, Scottie Davis, Greg Wells, Joe Taylor and Alan White.