Joseph Chester West

Joe passed away on February 17, 2026. His passing came less than a year after the loss of his wife, Peggy, in April 2025.

Joe was born on May 1, 1942, in Archer Lodge, Johnston County North Carolina, to Joseph Edward West and Dorothy Lacy Barbour West Hamilton. He grew up in Four Oaks, North Carolina, where he developed the strong work ethic and practical skills that would stay with him throughout his life.

Not long after high school, Joe met Margaret Blaisdell-known to everyone as Peggy-at a local dance. They were married soon afterward and shared 62 years together. After welcoming their daughter, Donna, the couple lived in Garner, North Carolina, before later settling in Clayton.

Joe spent more than 30 years working as a heavy equipment mechanic for North Carolina Equipment Company in Raleigh. He was known for his mechanical ability and for taking pride in doing a job the right way. In addition to his career, Joe volunteered as a firefighter with the Garner Fire Department. After retirement, he worked as a delivery driver for Budget Courier.

Joe had a lifelong interest in cars, especially classic cars and hot rods. His pride and joy was a 1939 Chevy that he carefully restored and maintained, earning numerous trophies and awards at car shows over the years. He always liked having a project to work on and was rarely content to sit still.

Joe and Peggy also enjoyed collecting antiques, watching the Braves on TBS, and spending time in the North Carolina mountains at their cabin in Lake Lure.

Joe could be a gruff man at times-a trait his grandchildren embraced by giving him the nickname "Grumpa." Beneath that exterior, however, was a man who cared deeply for his family and showed it through his steady presence, hard work, and willingness to help when needed.

Joe is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Randy Clark; his grandchildren, Abigail Kepple (Daniel) and their daughter Lindsey, Marley Pell (Chris), Payton Clark (fiancée Natalie Adams), Ethan Clark, Lainey Clark, and Dylan Clark; and his siblings, Gail Currin (Ronnie) and Mike West (JoAnn).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy; his parents, Edward and Dorothy; and his brother, Billy.

Joe made it clear that he did not want a traditional funeral service. In keeping with his wishes, family and friends are invited to a memorial reception on Saturday, March 28, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 1200 Benson Road, Garner, North Carolina. A light brunch will be provided as friends and family gather to visit and share memories.

A service of Bryan-Lee Funeral Home - Garner.