Billy Don West

Billy “Don” West, age 79, passed away on April 24, 2024. He was born on January 22, 1945 in Philadelphia, Mississippi to Harold O. West and Era Simmons. He attended Union High School, in Union, Mississippi. After high school he attended East Central Junior College and went on to the University of Mississippi where he obtained a degree in pharmacy from Ole Miss. (Hotty Toddy!).

In 1970 Don moved to the coast where he served as Pharmacist at his first job, Avenue Pharmacy, in Biloxi. Over the years he worked at many different pharmacies and hospitals all along the coast where he dedicated his life’s work to helping and serving the sick. In 2011 he was recognized as Employee of the Month at the Biloxi VA. After a career spanning 44 years, he retired from the Biloxi VA in 2014.

Don’s hobbies included playing golf, fishing, supporting and attending his grandchildren’s various activities whenever possible, yardwork, and working together with his wife for various charity events. His favorite pastime included spending time with family and friends and cheering on the Ole Miss Rebels and New Orleans Saints!

As a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Don served as Vice President and was currently serving as a Teller and an active member of the Mutual Ministry Committee. He has been a choir member for the last 28 years. He loved his church family very much.

In his retirement, Don was excited to join the Gulfport Krewe of Gemini where he reveled in the celebration of Mardi Gras. In 2021 Don and Mary had the honor of serving on the Krewe’s court as Duke and Maid. He served on the Board of Trustees for the last 2 years.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Mary Ellen West of Biloxi; children, Jason Scott West of Biloxi, Todd Husley (Linda) of Perkinston, Robin Frey (Veronica) of Biloxi, Chris Frey (Resa) of Biloxi, David Frey (Melinda) of Biloxi; grandchildren, Kacey Jade West, Morgan Frey Cox, Dawson Frey, Brennen Frey; nephew, Gregory H. West; sister-in-law, Judy West; God children, Raymond and Rilyn Speck of Gulfport, adopted daughter, April Shotwell, of Texas; his best friend from childhood, Noble Hurdle, of Taylorsville, MS; as well as many cherished friends and loved ones.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold O. West and Era E. Simmons West; aunt, Eva T. Simmons; brother, Thomas H. West; and nephew, Timothy J. West.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with visitation starting at 10:00 AM at Grace Lutheran Church, 19221 Pineville Rd. Long Beach, MS 39560. A short meal will be served in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service. The burial will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, Gulfport.

Because this is a Celebration of Life you are encouraged to wear bright colors, golf shirts or whatever you are comfortable with.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church, 19221 Pineville Rd. Long Beach, MS 39560

The family wishes to extend their thanks for the loving compassion shown to Don by the staff at Memorial Hospital of Gulfport: the incredible Nurses in 4-B, Dr. Rimmer, Anna, Sarah (ICU Nurse), Dr. Rizk and Dr. Mullins. ,

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport served the family. An online obituary may be viewed, and memories shared at www.RiemannFamily.com