Eartley L. West, 66

DOVER - Eartley L. West of Dover died Sunday, Aug. 5, 2007, at Bayhealth-Kent General Hospital, Dover. He was 66.

Mr. West was born in Eastville, Va., on March 19, 1941, to Elizabeth and Harry West.

After receiving his early education in the Eastville school district, he moved to Philadelphia, where he started his employment with the federal government. After moving to New York, he entered the law enforcement field, retiring after 21 years of service.

Longing for the quiet of the country, Mr. West moved to Delaware and was employed a short time at Eagle Transportation Services Inc., where he made numerous life long friendships.

He joined The Liberty Church, where he found a loving church family who supported him spiritually as he faithfully worshipped until his death.

Mr. West was the father of eight sons whom he raised reverently and with great Christian care, always being an example of faith and the love of God. He was always willing to lend council to those in need of a friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and Harry West; and two sisters, Odessa Burton and Mae Sample.

He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Synthia West of Dover; his sons, Wayne West of Charlotte, N.C., Darrell McPherson of Wilmington, and Eartley West Jr., Harold West, Allen West, William McPherson, Gregory McPherson and Troy McPherson, all of Long Island, N.Y.; five daughters-in-law, Patricia West, Saretha West, Barbara McPherson, Shawnese McPherson and Olgarina Estevez McPherson; 16 grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Bennie Smith Funeral Home in Dover. Services will be 11 a.m. Monday at The Liberty Church in Dover, where friends may view one hour prior.

Burial will be in Barrett"s Chapel Cemetery, Frederica.