Gerald Dean West's Obituary
With profound sorrow, the family of Gerald "Dean" West announces his passing on June 20, 2025, in Sand Springs, Oklahoma, at the age of 77. Born on March 7, 1948, in Zanesville, Ohio, to Ivers Theodore and Hattie Elizabeth (Mayfield) West, Dean lived a life marked by faith, service, and devotion to family.
A Vietnam War veteran, Dean honorably served in the United States Army from August 30, 1967, to August 17, 1970, including a tour in Vietnam from April 1969 to March 1970. His dedication exemplified courage and commitment to his country. Following his service, he pursued a heartfelt calling-first as an X-Ray Technician, caring for others in health need, and later as an Associate Pastor, guiding and inspiring his congregation with kindness and wisdom .
Dean was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, John William and Jewel Elsie Wolfe; brother Robert West; brothers-in-law Lloyd Wolfe and Keith Thurman; sister Lanie West; and daughter Mary West.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Linda Carol; daughters Deana Reese (fiance Rickey), Stephanie Dacus (husband James); son Michael West (wife Heather); granddaughters Ashley and Lindsay Reese, Brittney Williams (husband Bo), and Kylee West; grandsons Trey and John Dacus, and Chanc West; along with nine cherished great-grandchildren. Gerald is also survived by brothers Ted West (wife Maggie) and Richard West (wife Beth); sisters Martha Thurman; Vicki Willhite (husband Rick); Sandra Willhite (husband Don); Carol Gulley (husband Keith); Cheryl Randolph (husband Curtis); sisters-in-law Johnnie Bowman (husband Lawrence), Debbie Lee (husband Jim); as well as many beloved, nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and cousins.
Dean's life was a testament to service-both his country and his congregation-and to unwavering love for his family. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, steadfast faith, and the countless lives he touched through his work and ministry.
The family kindly asks that those attending the service in Sand Springs wear patriotic colors. For those joining the committal service in Fayetteville, please wear Razorback red.
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