Age 72, passed away on April 2, 2018. Billy Ray was born in Brinkley, AK, on July 28, 1945, the son of the late Willie and Rosalie (Parker) West. Immediately after graduating high school he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served our country with honor during the Vietnam War and was awarded a Purple Heart. After being discharged he returned to make Kalamazoo his home. Billy Ray was a hard worker who retired from International Paper Company after 40 years. Billy Ray was a sports fanatic. He loved attending Kalamazoo Central events. He was a loyal Michigan, Detroit and WMU fan. He loved being outdoors working on landscaping, camping or spending time at the beach. Above all Billy Ray loved his family and his friends. His smile and laughter will be missed by all those who loved him. On August 6, 1971, he married the love of his life Nancy West who survives. He is also survived by two children, Brian (Erin) West, Chris Ann West; five grandchildren, Jarrett, Grant, Madolyn, Averitt, and Ainsley West; brothers, Larry, David and Robert West; nieces, nephews and friends. He was also preceded in passing by a sister, Rosie West; brothers, Thomas, Jesse and Howard.