Billy Lee West

1938 - 2026

Billy L. West, lovingly known as "Darlin Darlin," age 87, of Ceres, California, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the family ranch in Ceres, surrounded by the people he loved most. Billy was born on March 1, 1938, in Madera, California, to the late Homer West and Sally Woods. He was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Wanda Peterson.

At the very center of Billy's life was his family. His greatest love was his beautiful wife of 69 years, Myrtle West-the love of his life, his best friend, and his constant companion. Billy was an extraordinary husband who loved Myrtle deeply. Their marriage was a true love story, built on laughter and a lifetime of shared memories.

Billy was a devoted and deeply proud father to his cherished children: Kelly Pond and her husband Chris; Billy West Jr.; Homer West and his wife Sharlene; and Kenya West and her partner Chuck Lyons. He led his family with strength, steady guidance, and unconditional love. His children always knew they were supported, protected, and endlessly loved.

Being "Papa" was one of Billy's greatest joys. He was an incredibly proud and devoted grandfather to Brittney England, Kassandra Pond, Hayden England and his partner Liana McKinnon, and Justin Pond. There was no game, performance, school event, or milestone he would ever miss-his presence was constant, his encouragement unwavering. He was a loving great-grandfather to Lily England, Ayveri England, Selah England, and Eden England, who brought light, laughter, and immense happiness into his life. Billy also shared a special parent-child bond with Sandy Sizemore and Brian England, whom he loved as his own and held close to his heart.

A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Billy served his country honorably for four years. He was a hardworking provider his entire life, owning a Chevron Gas Station in Modesto, working for Nestlé, driving truck for many years, and later dedicating 11 years of service to Stanislaus County Public Works before retiring.

Billy was deeply involved in the Masonic community, including Ceres Smyrna Lodge #532, Modesto Masons Lodge #206, Alchemists Clowns of Livermore, ROJ Q13, the Modesto Shrine Club, and the Modesto Mini Lizzies. An ordained minister for several years, Billy felt truly honored to unite couples in marriage, a role he embraced with joy, and deep faith.

Above all else, Billy's heart belonged to his family. He showed his love freely, most often through warm hugs and a welcoming smile. Billy touched countless lives through his love, wisdom, and compassion. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion to family, a legacy that will live on through his family and all who were blessed to know him.

Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of Billy's life will be held at a later date.