Jimmy Carl West, 87, of Imperial died July 13, 2025. Mr. West will be remembered for his strong work ethic, kind heart and entrepreneurial spirit. At a young age, he strengthened his faith at his small local church. In 1973, he received his bachelor of arts undergraduate degree in history from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, while working full-time and raising three children. He was interested in politics and history. He worked to have personal property taxes abolished in St. Louis County by canvassing citizens to obtain the necessary signatures and appearing before the Missouri Congress. He wrote music that has a copyright and lived by the credo that he could make the world a better place. He was known for being kind, funny, friendly and interesting. He was frequently singing at home, and often make up funny songs or silly poems. In 1983, he started his own company, West Graphics, Inc., in Webster Groves and provided employment to upwards of 50 people at one time. He retired in 1995. Born Jan. 26, 1938, in Canalou, he was the son of the late Paul and Beulah (Oliver) West.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 69 years: Charlene (Evans) West, whom he married on August 11, 1956; three children: Teresa (Ken Ess), Pamela (Mike Diemert) and Christopher West; six grandchildren: Brandon Ess, Casey Pezold, Megan Daniels, Mandi McClain, Nathan Brekel and Kati Lovejoy; 10 great-grandchildren; and a sibling: Jeanne Bell.
He was preceded in death by a daughter: Jennifer Weeks; and siblings: Marion West, Kenneth West and Patsy Foust.
Per Mr. West’s request, there will be no funeral service.