Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1941
DIED
2025
Waylan West Obituary
05/12/1941 - 04/25/2025
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Waylan Ray West, beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, who entered eternal rest on April 25, 2025, at the age of 83.
Born on May 12, 1941, Waylan lived a life full of love, adventure, and genuine sharing. A graduate of Temple High School in 1959, Waylan completed 12 years of schooling without ever being tardy or missing a single day. He served his country for eight years in the National Guard and Army Reserve. Waylan went on to attend Texas Wesleyan College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry - and, even more meaningfully, met the love of his life, Karen Pair.
For 59 wonderful years, Waylan and Karen shared a beautiful marriage, building a family rooted in love, laughter, and kindness. Together, they raised two sons, Matthew and Kevin, and their hearts overflowed with pride and joy for their six grandchildren: Wendy, Andrew, Cali, Kiki, Jackson, and Macy.
Waylan balanced his career in the petroleum industry with being an avid golfer, a patient fisherman, and a passionate traveler. Hand in hand, Waylan and Karen visited over 80 countries. He found joy in life's simple pleasures and treasured every moment spent outdoors, exploring new places, or simply being with those he loved. Gifted in conversation, he rarely met a stranger and always made people feel important.
A man of resilience, Waylan conquered his battle with cancer for over 40 years, always with a positive attitude and a deep, abiding faith that inspired all who knew him.
Waylan was preceded in death by his parents, Elsie and Milton. He is survived by his wife, Karen; son Matthew; son Kevin and wife Kim; six grandchildren: Wendy, Andrew, Cali, Kiki, Jackson, and Macy; sister Patsy and husband Essy; brother Charles; along with many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends whose lives he touched with his warmth, humor, generosity, strength, kindness, and love.
A celebration of Waylan's life will be held at The Woodlands Methodist Church on May 12, 2025, at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to The Woodlands Methodist Church Foundation (https://thewoodlandsmethodist.org/foundation) or the MD Anderson Cancer Center (https://mdanderson.donordrive.com/campaign/In-Honor-of-Waylan-West)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Waylan West
6 Entries
Graham Whitehead
May 11, 2025
Dear West Family,
As a fairly new member of the golf group I only had the pleasure of meeting and playing golf with Waylan a few times. Each time I found him humorous, and always willing to help me with the course management. I am sure he will be remembered and missed by all.
My sincere condolences to all his family members.
Milta West Nail
May 10, 2025
My deepest condolences .
Gary Page Whitfield
May 4, 2025
Waylan being prayed for at several churches today. A wonderful guy!
LArry MUse
May 3, 2025
I believe I had the privilege of bowling in the same league as your sister Patsy! She was the prettiest bowler there! RIP Waylan, prayers to the family!
Bobby Schafer
May 2, 2025
I am sad to hear of my cousin's passing. I remember playing what was supposed to be touch football after eating Thanksgiving dinner. It always turned into all out tackle football. As a young man I looked up to Waylan for I knew all the obstacles he had overcome to be successful. He was my favorite cousin even though I was several years younger. To all of the West family I offer my condolences. May he rest in peace.
Bobby Schafer
Udon Thani Thailand
Mea
May 2, 2025
I´m so sorry for your loss. I am praying for you all. Please know that your loved one is safe in God´s memory (Proverbs 14:14,15). Just as he brought his son Jesus back to life, he will do the same for your loved one. May God give you comfort and strength to help you cope during this difficult time.
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in Waylan West's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for Waylan West
How to support Waylan's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Waylan West's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
