Denzil Jay West, 95, of Independence, MO, passed away April 27, 2021.

A Memorial Service will be scheduled at a future date.

Denzil was born March 20, 1926 in Independence, MO to Everett J. and Erma L. (McBride) West. He attended schools in Independence and graduated from William Chrisman High School in 1944.

Denzil was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps in WWII from May 26, 1944 to May 17, 1946. He saw active duty in the Pacific Theater. He served as a communications specialist and as a bugler.

Denzil graduated from Graceland College in 1948 with an AA and from Drake University in 1951 with a BA in Sociology. He studied sociology, religious studies, and educational administration.  He attended two summer sessions at Harvard, working on his MA.

Denzil retired from Standard Oil in 1982 when the Sugar Creek Refinery operations moved to Texas.  He then worked at Fort Leavenworh as a computer programmer of war games for the military.

He was an Elder in Community of Christ Church, and attended services at Second Church, Enoch Hill and the East 39^th Street congregations. He served as pastor for several years at both Enoch Hill and East 39^th Street congregations.

Denzil was well known for his sense of humor, repeated jokes, writing humorous poems for birthdays and special occasions, and more serious writing for The Saints Herald and Daily Bread.  He never forgot anyone he met, sent cards and notes to hundreds of people, and had friends around the world. He also served the community as an executive and a delivery person for Meals on Wheels.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Warren West, and one son, Marcus K. West.

Denzil is survived by his children:  Blake C. West, Eric J. West, Gaye Sharp, Susan Crowder, Julie Salazar, and Gina Barker; his grandchildren: Jason Smith, Megan Cooper, Ethan Smith, Joshua West, Kelli Gonzalez, Joseph Crowder III, Jordan Salazar, Zachary Salazar, Nicholas Salazar, Sydney Kennedy, Conor Kennedy, and Skyler West; and 9 great grandchildren.

 Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kccremation.com