James Virgil West

James V. West, 78, of Chester, VA, went to be with his Lord on May 2, 2025.

Born and raised in Leicester, NC, he was the son of the late Herman L. and Polly Mehaffey West. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Cozette King West; son, Gregory West and wife, Lisa, of Chester, VA; grandchildren, Kenzie West and Dylan West and wife, Charlotte; brother, Frank West, of Leicester, NC; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Lee Rhodarmer; brother-in-law, Carroll Rhodarmer; and nephew, Chris Rhodarmer.

James graduated from Clyde A Erwin High School and attended A-B Community College. He spent a lifelong career of 40 years at Square D Company in Asheville, NC. He was an active member of Grace United Methodist Church, where he served as a trustee and member of several committees.

James was always volunteering for community activities, including the Leicester Welcome Table and delivering meals to shut-ins. He also served on the Erwin Youth League board and coached basketball and baseball teams for several years. Hobbies that he enjoyed included golf, farming, raising Angus cattle, and attending local sporting events. James was a devoted Christian, husband and father, and a loving grandfather.

A celebration of James' life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, June 7, 2025, in the Chapel of Wells Funeral Home in Canton, North Carolina, with Pastor David Green officiating; visitation available after the service. Graveside service will also follow at Grace United Methodist Church Cemetery in Leicester, North Carolina.

The care of Mr. West has been entrusted to both J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home of Chester, Virginia, and Wells Funeral Home of Canton, North Carolina.