Mr. Kenneth Eugene “Ken” West, age 89, of McMinnville, TN, went home to be with his Savior on Thursday, May 16, 2024. Transplanted from Hopkinsville, KY, Ken was locally known as pianist at First Baptist Church (25 years) and the Harmony Echoes Quartet (40 years), later serving in the same capacity at Gath Baptist Church.
Ken was retired from DeZurik Southern, McMinnville, where he served as Purchasing Manager. He graduated from Austin Peay State University in 1958, where he lettered in basketball. Ken was a lifelong, avid fan of the University of Kentucky, attending many games over his lifetime. He also loved playing golf, traveling, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and family. He loved babies; they were Papa’s “Dandies”.
Mr. West was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer Eugene and Mabel Irene Foster West of Hopkinsville, KY. Ken is survived by his dedicated and loving wife of over 65 years, Joyce Black West, a widely known gospel musician. Additional survivors are children, Donna West (Donny) Berryhill, Jeff (Jolene) West, and Chris (Allison) West; grandchildren, Nathan Berryhill, Natalie (John) Frederick, Philip Berryhill, John Berryhill (fiancé Lauren Olive), Matthew Berryhill, Ethan West, Emily West, Owen West, Millie West, and Connor West; great grandchildren, Marina Berryhill, Adelyne Olive, Aspyn Berryhill, with a great-grandson on the way.
The West family will receive friends Saturday, May 18, at McMinnville Funeral Home from 5:00 until 8:00 P.M. and again Sunday 11:00 A.M. until the time of service. The Funeral will be held at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, May 19, in the Chapel, officiated by Bros. Rick Stewart and Ray Gilder. Interment will follow at Mt. View Cemetery.
If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ken’s memory to the American Diabetes Association.
