Roy Pennell West, Sr.

Roy Pennell West, Sr., 84, died September 14, 2017, at Calder Woods Assisted Living Facility in Beaumont, following 17 years with Parkinson’s disease. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many.

Born September 22, 1932, in San Antonio, Texas, Roy spent the majority of his childhood in the Alamo City playing sports and finding mischief that resulted in legendary stories.

Roy loved adventure, competition, bar-b-que, and a good milkshake. He was a relentless athlete who earned the nickname “Gameday Daddy” in high school. Basketball brought Roy to Lamar University on a scholarship in 1953. He was a point guard and playmaker but Roy pulled off an impressive feat by scoring a date with Wanda Jo Park, marrying in 1955 and raising two children. 

He began selling insurance in 1968, up until his retirement in 1992, but before Roy became a salesman he was known as “Coach West,” coaching basketball and teaching at South Park Middle School. 

Following the death of his first wife, Wanda, Roy married Martha Hanna in 1987. The pair went on a nearly three-decade-rendezvous, traveling across the oceans but mainly living a life of leisure on Lake Sam Rayburn where he spent his time golfing, eating Martha’s delicious cooking, and stirring up trouble. 

An avid gambler and wise guy, his family will miss his competitive spirit and sense of humor. 

He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Martha Hanna West; his daughter, Stacey Bourque and her husband, Steve; his son, Roy West, Jr. and his wife, Trisha; his stepson, Jay Hanna and his wife, Doria; his stepdaughter, Marta Bott and her husband, Bruce; his stepson, Trent Hanna and his wife, Tiffany; twelve grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, William West, Sr. and Cleo Pennell West; his first wife, Wanda Jo West; his brother, William West, Jr.; and his daughter-in-law, Cynthia Booker West.

A gathering of Mr. West’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Friday, September 22, 2017, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 23, 2017, at Lake Rayburn United Methodist Church, 349 FM 1007, Brookeland, with a reception to follow. A family committal will be held at Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont.

Contributions are suggested to the Lamar University Athletic Department, 211 Redbird Lane, Beaumont, Texas 77710; or the Lake Rayburn United Methodist Church, 349 FM 1007, Brookeland, Texas 75931.