Pitkin-Graveside services for Ellis West, 74, will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at Occupy #1 Cemetery. Rev. Joe Wellman will officiate. All arrangements have been entrusted to Ardoin/Allen Parish Funeral Homes.

The family will receive visitors at Westport Friendship Baptist Church on Tuesday, May 17, 2022 from 5-10 p.m.

Ellis was born in Elizabeth, Louisiana, and graduated from Plainview High School. Upon graduation, he served his country in the United States Army, where he fought in the Vietnam War. Ellis was a faithful member and deacon of Westport Friendship Baptist Church, where he also served as an Adult Sunday School Teacher and Music Director for many years. He had served his community over the years as a Little Dribblers coach, President of the Ward 6 Water Association, and Board Member for Occupy #1 Cemetery Committee. Ellis was known for his love of LSU Sports and local athletics.

Like he dealt with all experiences, Ellis managed his life with strength and grace and wanted to spend as much time with his loved ones as possible. He was surrounded by his family in his final days, who he adored, second only to his love for his Savior, Jesus Christ.

Left to celebrate his earthly legacy is his wife of 45 years, Theresa West of Pitkin; son, Cory West and wife, Ashley, of Union Hill; daughter, Ellise Odom and husband, Chris, of Pitkin; five grandchildren, Riley Odom, Carly Odom, Gavin West, Jaxson West, and Jayven West; two sisters, Margie Cannon of Alexandria and Jeanette Cotter of Medford, Oregon; as well as a host of extended family and friends.

Ellis was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest and Verdie West; and brothers and sisters, Daniel Strother, Clyde Strother, Betty Morgan, Eloise Ferguson, and Earnest West, Jr.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Randal Chandler, LC Coker, Pat Laird, Donnie Morgan, Dustin Singletary, and Bill Smith. Honorary pallbearers are Riley Odom, Ashton Chandler, Gavin West, and Jaxson West.

The family would like to say a special thanks to Compassionate Care Hospice, Dr. Rachel Thompson, Westport Friendship Baptist Church, and the surrounding communities for prayers and encouragement during this time.