James R. “Jimmy” West, Sr., 79, a lifelong resident of Hayes, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital.
Jimmy was born on February 10, 1947 to the late Linwood and Edith West. He left behind a legacy as a true Chesapeake Bay waterman who dedicated his life to the rhythm of the tides and the freedom of the open water. For decades, he worked the bay with unmatched pride and a quiet, tireless strength. He was a familiar and respected figure on the docks, known for his deep knowledge of the water, his calloused hands, and his dedication to the hard, honest work of harvesting crabs in the heat of summer and tonging for oysters in the bitter cold of winter. His sons and grandsons will cherish the memories of working alongside Jimmy and what they learned from his hard work and dedication to being a true Chesapeake waterman.
In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by his siblings, Eugene, Marie, Bobby, and Cheryl West.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Goldie; his devoted children: daughter, Lisa Clark (Charlie); son, James West Jr., and son, David West (Kristen). He was the proud grandfather of Damon Hogge Jr. (Taylor), Justin Hogge (Marie), Kelsey Brooks (Peyton), Miranda West, Braden West, and Hunter West, and the adoring great-grandfather of Charlotte Hogge, Bradley Hogge, Rylee Hogge, and Elizabeth Guy.
As we look out across the waters he loved so dearly, we find comfort in the timeless words of the sailor’s farewell: “May you have fair winds and following seas, and may your anchor hold in calm harbor.”
We cast off your lines with heavy hearts but with the comforting knowledge that you are now sailing on a calmer shore, where the waters are peaceful, the sun never sets, and you are finally free. Rest easy, Captain. Your watch is over, and you have safely made it home.
In accordance with his wishes, funeral services will be private and are under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home & Crematory.