News Summary
Willie Joe West, a respected Augusta community member and veteran, passed away at the age of 86. Known for his dedication to family, country, and banking, his contributions left a lasting impact. His upcoming graveside services will honor his military service and community legacy, as family and friends gather to pay respects.
Augusta, GA – Mr. Willie Joe West, a prominent member of the Augusta community and a lifelong resident, passed away at the age of 86 on October 13, 2025. Born on October 14, 1938, in Washington, Georgia, Mr. West’s death marks the end of a long and dedicated life of service to both his country and his community.
Mr. West joined the Army Reserves during his high school years before enlisting in the U.S. Army, where he served with honor and commitment. Following his military service, he devoted over four decades to the banking sector, spending his career at several institutions, including Georgia Railroad and First Union. His contributions to the field and the many lives he influenced throughout his career are fondly remembered by his colleagues and friends.
Mr. West is survived by a loving family that will deeply miss him. This includes his devoted nephew, Harvey West; his wife, Carolyn, and their three sons; his ex-wife, Classie West, and stepdaughter, Allison Samuels; as well as a host of cherished nephews, nieces, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Mae and Harvey West Sr., and all ten of his siblings, highlighting a family legacy that is now carried forward by the next generation.
Graveside Services Scheduled
Graveside services for Mr. West are set to take place on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The service will occur at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, located at 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC. The ceremony will include military honors, reflecting the respect and gratitude owed to his service in the U.S. Army.
Arrangements Managed by W.H. Mays Mortuary
The funeral arrangements are being managed by W.H. Mays Mortuary, located at 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30901. Those wishing to reach the mortuary can do so by contacting them at (706) 722-6401.
Community Impact and Legacy
Throughout his life, Mr. West was known for his unwavering dedication, not just to his family and career, but also to his community. He left an indelible mark on many lives through his service and personal connections. Friends, family, and former colleagues express gratitude for having known a man who embodied kindness and commitment in all areas of his life.
Born and raised in a tight-knit Southern community, Mr. West was a beloved figure, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come. His service in both the military and financial sectors showcases a lifetime devoted to bettering the lives of those around him. Individuals who knew him remember him as a man of integrity who was always willing to lend a helping hand.
The obituary for Mr. Willie Joe West has been posted online as of October 25, 2025, and is also published in the Augusta Chronicle, allowing for friends and community members to pay their respects and remember a cherished life well-lived.
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Additional Resources
- Augusta Chronicle Obituary
- Thomas Poteet Obituary: John Arthur
- Dignity Memorial Obituary: Madge Welch
- G.L. Bright Harp Mortuary Obituary: Reatha Bussey
- Legacy.com Obituary: Carl Bryan
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google Scholar: Obituary
- Google News: Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
