Richard Anthony West
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard Anthony West, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who departed this life on Friday, April 18, 2025, at the age of 62.
Born on Monday, Sept. 3, 1962, to the late Shirley A. Fairbanks and Lee Andrew West, Richard's life was deeply rooted in his faith and community. He was a devoted member of Hawkinsville Missionary Baptist Church.
A proud graduate of Howard High School's Class of 1980, Richard furthered his education at Fisk University. His dedication to the City of Chattanooga spanned four decades, where he served as a Recreation Division Manager. For 42 years, he also made a significant impact as a TSSAA Official.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, and his aunts: Willie Ruth Douglas, Marion Douglas, Loretta Nash, and Sandra Powell; and his uncles: Jerry Allen, Percy Allen III, and Charles Stoudemire.
His memory will be forever cherished by his loving wife of 32 years, Melvina H. West; his daughters: Crystal Parker-Clay, Keyia (Howard) Stinson, D’Toria (Brandon) Harden, and Kanara (Clinton) Williams, all of Chattanooga; his son, Pastor Alvin (Victoria) Parker, Jr. of Hermitage, Tn.; his siblings: Drucilla Robinson and Stephen (Yvonna) West of Chattanooga; his grandchildren: Nicholas, Xavier, Matthew, William, Melvina, Jermaine, and Clinton III; and his seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a host of cherished aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Richard will be fondly remembered for his infectious big smile, his boisterous laugh that filled any room, and his big, loving heart that touched so many lives.
The body will lie in state on Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 2-6 p.m. at the John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., Chattanooga, 423 622-9995.
A celebration of Richard's life will be held on Monday, May 5, 2025, at 12:00 noon at Hawkinsville Missionary Baptist Church, with Pastor Alvin D. Parker Jr. officiating.
Interment will follow at Highland Memorial Garden Cemetery.