William K. West, 97, of Russell Springs, KY passed away at his home on Thursday, December 28, 2023. He was born September 16, 1926 in Russell County, a son of the late Edd and Marie Stephens West.
At the age of 8, Mr. West began raising sheep. When he sold his first ewe lamb for $8.00, he was able to start his first bank account. William continued with various forms of livestock – chickens, guineas, sheep, and cattle – 88 years. He cleared his land with a crosscut saw and worked his farm with a team of mules. In all his years of farming, he never owned a tractor. William was a simple man who was no stranger to hard work. He will be missed by those who knew and loved him.
SURVIVORS:
2 special daughters: Rebecca Bounds of Russell Springs and Ronette Wilson of Jamestown
1 brother: Amon West of Jamestown
2 sisters: Lucille Semer of Indiana and Sheila Walters of Russell Springs
2 granddaughters: Makayla Hudson and Makenzie Hudson
Special nephew: Mike Boger (Cheryl) of Russell Springs
A host of nieces & nephews
In addition to his parents, William was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Olene Coffey West, who passed away April 28, 2005. He was also preceded in death by five brothers and seven sisters.
Funeral Service: Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at 2:00pmCT at Bernard Funeral Home with Bro. Scott Proctor officiating
Burial: Bernard Ridge Cemetery
Visitation: Monday, January 1, 2024 from 5:00pm-8:00pmCT and Tuesday after 8:00amCT at the funeral home
Pallbearers: Terry McQueary, Mike Boger, Randy Wheat, Tanner Carnes, Nathan Ray, and Caiden McQueary
Honorary Pallbearers: Shawn Bounds and Charlie Newland
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Bernard Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.bernardfuneralhome.com.
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