Joe Louis West, 71, of Palatka, entered the sunset of life on Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009 at Putnam Community Medical Center. He was a native and lifelong resident of Palatka, born Thursday, September 2, 1937 to the union of William West Sr. and Corene Serena (Gavin) West. Joe was educated in the Putnam County School District (Central Academy Class of 1956). Joe was united in marriage to the former Bernice Morgan on January 4, 1964 and to their union three children were born. He was of the Baptist faith and during his early years, he attended Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church. Joe was a self-employed entrepreneur who used his skills in land clearing, recycling, hauling, mechanics, used auto parts and salvaging. He served his community by being that special friend and advisor to many and enjoyed motorcycle riding. Joe was preceded in eternal rest by his parents, William Sr., and Corene West; paternal grandparents; Oliver West, Celia West Hill, & Bob Hill; maternal grandparents; Philmon and Ellen Gavin; brothers; Jessie West, Nathaniel West, James Carl J.C. West and William Nebo West, Jr., sisters, Ella Mae West and Winnie Lee Williams. To cherish his memories: longtime companion of 13 years, Josephine Brinson, Satsuma; sons and daughters: Kenneth Levon West, Palatka; Mae West (Daniel) Brown, Lake City; Tangie West Cohens, Palatka; Christian Eric (Tamara) West, Jacksonville; Brothers & Sisters: Lucille W. Maxwell, Atlanta, GA; Carey (Olivia) West, Jacksonville; Loretha W. (Rev. Ezekiel) Johnson, Palatka; John West, Palatka; Marvie (Nathan) Allen, East Palatka; Willie James (Mamie) Johnson, Warner Robins, GA; thirteen grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; several sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, special friends, co-workers, and caring neighbors. Visitation of family and friends will be Friday, April 17, (today) from 5 8 p.m. at the Chapel of Serenity. The cortege will assemble at Palatka High School at 10:20 a.m. Saturday. Homegoing Celebration will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 18, at Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church, 4909 St. Johns Ave, Palatka, Rev Karl N. Flagg, Pastor, officiating. Interment will be in Palatka Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be sent to the West family at www.flaggserenitychapel.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel, 2400 Madison Street, Palatka, FL.