Michael Lee West
Michael Lee West, 74, died June 8, 2025. He died peacefully at home with his partner, Debbie, at his side.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde West and Frances West.
Mike is survived by his partner of 12 years Debbie Broom, daughter Meagan West, and soon to be grandson, Michael Alexander West. He is survived by several good friends, Mike Ronan, Steve Watson, Stewart Brown, and Hank Hill. He will be sorely missed.
Mike was born in Griffin, Ga., on Aug. 8, 1950. He spent his childhood there enjoying many happy times with his Grandpa. They fished, hunted, and plowed the fields with mules. He was close to family and experienced a happy childhood. He spent hours wondering his grandparents 100 acre farm.
In the 1960s his parents bought a Stuckey's in Bean Town, Tennessee. He attended school during the day and worked in the store in the afternoon, during the summer, and holidays seven days a week.
His college days started in 1968 when he entered The University of Tennessee. When he finished his undergrad work, he decided on law school. He graduated from law school in 1975 and began his career as an attorney shortly thereafter. He worked in Knoxville for a while until getting a better offer in Chattanooga. He worked in Chattanooga for several years before moving on.
Mike loved adventure and moved to Australia to work there for several years. After returning to the States he went to work as project manager for a large boiler company and worked in Canada, Maine, Louisiana, Texas, and Atlanta. When the company closed he moved back to Chattanooga and took up the practice of law again. He retired in 2021.
Mike was a family man and loved spending time with them. He also loved spending time with his friends, over a glass of scotch, discussing all topics of interest.
He was an avid reader and read hundreds if not thousands of, mostly nonfiction, books in his lifetime. His thirst for knowledge was insatiable. He always had a book in his hand. Mike also loved college football. He rarely missed a Vols game. His dogs were important to him also. He considered them family. Koda and Zeke will miss Mike very much.
The family wants to extend a heartfelt appreciation to Hearth Hospice and his caregivers, nurses Jennifer and Stephanie. Nurse Practitioner, Travis. Caregiver Candice and Bella.
A memorial will be held at a later date.