John Henry West, 93, of Hayes, died Dec. 26, 2011 at Walter Reed Convalescent Center.

John was a retired self-employed oysterman and painter. He spent most of his life working on the water and he was the oldest member of the Saddler’s Neck community. He was a kind, hardworking gentleman, always respectful of his friends and loved his family. He will be missed by all.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Hermie H. West, and son, Lewis Henry West.

He is survived by son, Joseph Alvin West and wife Martha; daughter, Lola Mae Green and husband, Sam; daughter-in-law, Sandra West; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services conducted by the Rev. W. Donald Ambrose will be held 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30, 2011 at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point. Interment will follow in Bellamy Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday, prior to the service from 1-1:45 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank all the staff of the Memory Unit at Walter Reed Convalescent Center for the loving care and kindness given to our dad.

In our dad’s memory, contributions may be sent to Abingdon Volunteer Fire and Rescue, P.O. Box 9, Bena, Va. 23018.