Obituary

Talmadge James "Tal" West
January 30, 1929 — November 27, 2024
Kettering
Talmadge James "Tal" West, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2024, in Kettering, Ohio, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 30, 1929, in Brotherton, Tennessee, Tal's journey through life was marked by dedication, love, and an unwavering spirit.

A proud graduate of Stivers High School, Tal’s early years were intertwined with hard work as he helped his father run the family grocery store. This experience instilled a strong work ethic in him, which he carried throughout his life. He later joined NCR before settling into a fulfilling career at Inland, from which he would eventually retire, leaving behind a legacy of diligence and commitment.

Tal was a man of immense faith, and that faith guided every aspect of his life. His devotion to his family was evident in all that he did; he showered them with love and support, creating a warm and welcoming home. Tal found joy in the simple moments, whether it was sitting on his front porch, teaching his daughter about various wildflowers (he adored when she would visit from Tennessee), tending to his beloved garden, or enjoying lively games of bowling and softball with his son. He was also known to play a game of Rook or pitch horseshoes with family at various get-togethers. Sundays were especially dear to him, he enjoyed listening to his granddaughters sing, hearing his son-in-law play the piano and his son play the drums. Also on Sundays, he enjoyed attending his Sunday School Class at the First Baptist Church of Kettering, where he was a member for 65 years. Other hobbies throughout his life that brought him joy were visits from his grandsons, hearing his granddaughters argue over who was Poppy's favorite, boating with his family, trap shooting and going on family vacations.

His family was the center of his world. He enjoyed the company of his beloved wife, Ernestine West, with whom he celebrated 71 wonderful years of marriage. Tal is survived by his daughter, Yvonne (Gary) Mullins, and son, James (Teresa) West, who carry forward his spirit of love and respect. The joy of his life continued with his grandchildren-Jeremy (Jennifer) West, Joshua (Sara) West, Cassondra (Tyler) Lietz, Angelique Mullins, Leeann (Anthony) Cooper, and Karissa (Sean) Garrison-who brought him immense pride and happiness. Additionally, he was a beloved great-grandfather to Natalie, Noah, Nadia, Jadyn , Sophia, Micah, Shae, Alivea, and Reagan, who were a testament to his enduring legacy. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and members of his "church family".

Tal was preceded in death by his parents, Herschel and Bertha West, and his siblings-Andrew (Retha) West, Carl (Dora) West, and Mildred (Dow) Sutton-whose memories he cherished deeply.

His memory will be honored through a visitation on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at noon, all taking place at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3380 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Beavercreek. He will then be laid to rest during a graveside service at David's Cemetery in Dayton, Ohio, on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 11:00 AM, those wishing to attend are to gather at the cemetery.

As we remember Talmadge "Tal" West, we celebrate a life that exemplified love, hard work, and faith. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts and lives of those he touched.