David "Dave" Lee West

It is with a saddened heart to announce the passing of David "Dave" Lee West. He passed away on March 4th, 2024, at his home with his wife by his side after his six-year battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis. Dave was born on June 5th, 1951, in Charleston, West Virginia.

Dave is survived by his wife of three decades, Cynthia "Cindy" Freeland Martin West, Son Prentiss "Prent" Reid Martin & wife, Jamie Michelle Martin, and Granddaughter, Harper Lee Martin. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Mrs. Karen West of Clinton, NC, his cousin, Mrs. Sue Holliday Grimes, and husband, Jim Grimes of South Charleston, West Virginia, and cousin, Brenda Arthur of Charleston, West Virginia, along with several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews. He was the first-born son of proud parents Betty and Wilbur West and was the beloved older brother of Reverend Bill West. Dave's parents and brother have preceded him in eternal rest.

Dave spent his formative years in the mountains of West Virginia, cultivating his passions for science fiction, music, singing, and photography. With a great sense of humor, Dave always loved making people laugh. He became an Eagle Scout during his time in Charleston. He was an avid member of his local high school marching band, even participating in major events, including the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. After graduating from Charleston High School, Dave attended Marshall University. Tragically, while there, the school suffered its own national misfortune, losing its entire football program in a deadly plane crash.

After college, Dave moved to the great Music City capital of the world, Nashville, Tennessee, and found success selling lyrics he had composed and providing music engineering in the industry. Always learning, he applied his many talents to industrial photography and information technology. While in Nashville, he met his wife of three decades, Cynthia Freeland Martin West, and her son, Prentiss R. Martin.

Dave would go on to excel in his most significant role yet as a devoted husband and father and then ultimately grandfather. He was always quick to inject humor into life with his family while being an exemplary example of what it means to be a man; his life lessons will not be forgotten and will be highly missed. Dave enjoyed building things with his hands and improving his home with his beloved wife while providing sanctuary for the numerous animals adopted through the years. He truly embodied the DIY spirit of an Eagle Scout who learned as a West Virginia mountaineer all those years ago. Being the son of a "Marine's" Marine who survived the Pacific Theater, Dave shared many life lessons from his parents to his son Prentiss and granddaughter Harper.

Dave maintained his passion for science fiction, embodying the spirit of exploration, discovery, and adventure. He was always kind, gentle, and compassionate and loved his family. In his final years, he enjoyed attending his granddaughter's softball games and spending as much time as possible with family and friends. May this testament honor a man who was loved and will be forever missed.

A celebration of life event is planned for a later date.