Thomas West
Thomas “Tom” Lee West, Sr., 80, of Adamsville, Ohio died unexpectedly Saturday morning, September 19, 2026, at his home, surrounded by loved ones.
Thomas West lived a life defined by quiet strength, deep devotion, and an enduring love that anchored his family for decades. A proud patriot, Thomas answered the call of duty during the Vietnam War. While he served far from home, his beloved high school sweetheart, Hilda Yinger West, kept watch and waited for his return on the family farm – holding fast to a bond that distance could never weaken. When he returned, they picked up right where they left off, beginning a marriage that would span sixty extraordinary years.
Beyond the walls of his home, Thomas dedicated himself to his community and his work with steadfast commitment. He proudly served as a volunteer firefighter with the Adamsville Fire Department and EMS for 20 years, answering the call to protect and help his neighbors in their times of greatest need. Professionally, he brought that same unwavering work ethic to Burnham Foundry, where he worked hard for 35 years, and an active member of VFW Zanesville Post 1058.
To those that knew them, Thomas and Hilda never stopped being high school sweethearts. Their love remained steady and tender through every season of life – marked by gentle humor, steadfast partnership, and a romance that time could not diminish. Like the couple walking arm in arm down a sunlit country road, their journey together was one of shared purpose, deep affection, and quiet, enduring companionship.
Family was everything to Thomas. He was deeply devoted to and adored his parents, the late Harold Martin West and Lena Belle Secrest. He also shared a wonderful relationship with his in-laws, Kenneth Yinger and Hilda McCormick Yinger, and never missed an opportunity to affectionately tease his mother-in-law with a playful spirit that always brought smiles to the room.
Thomas was the proud and loving patriarch of a large, close-knit family. Together, he and Hilda raised their five children – Tommy, Rhonda, Allen, Michael, and Philip – who in turn blessed them with six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents and father-in-law, Thomas was preceded in death by his dear brother, Harold “Bud” West. He is survived by his loving wife, Hilda; his mother-in-law, Hilda McCormick Yinger; his brother, Richard West; and his cherished children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will all carry his memory forward.
His greatest joy and proudest legacy lived within the walls of his home, the community he served, and the hearts of his family. The image of Thomas and Hilda – standing together at sunset, their silhouettes filled with the memory of a lifetime walked side by side – captures the essence of the love they shared and the life they built. Though he has now walked ahead to a different shore, the foundation of love, faith, and family he created remains unshakable.
Thomas West will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and carried in our hearts.
Friends and family may visit from 4 PM to 8 PM on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Salem Community Church, 4949 Salem Church Road, Adamsville.
Funeral services will be 10:00 AM on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at the church with Pastor Wayne Hogue and Pastor Jim Lee officiating.
Thomas Lee West, Sr. will be laid to rest at Salem Church Cemetery, Salem Church Road, Adamsville, Ohio.
