William “Bill” Cary West, age 79, of West Columbia, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on October 10, 1946, in Houston, Texas, to his parents, William Hamilton West and Freida Bell (Dodd) West.

Bill married the love of his life, Betty Schroeder, in Houston, Texas, in 1970, and together they built a life centered on family, faith, and service to others. He served his country in the Navy during the Vietnam War as part of the Mobile Riverine Force. Bill obtained a bachelor's degree in industrial arts in 1973 from Southwest Texas State University before going on to obtain a master's degree from the University of Houston in Clear Lake. He devoted 27 years to education as a teacher and administrator with the Windham and Angleton School Districts, where he touched the lives of many students through his patience, guidance, and dedication before retiring in 2001.

Bill will be remembered for his steady presence, kind heart, and commitment to his family and community. Within the community, he devoted time to scouting, coaching, and umpiring. He found great joy spending time with those he loved and took pride in the lives and accomplishments of his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 56 years, Betty Schroeder West; his children, Tiffany McHam and husband Jason, William West and wife Rochelle, and Brittany Palazzolo and husband Tony; his grandchildren, Wyatt, Elizabeth, Scarlett, Abigail, and Anthony; his brother, Gary W. West; and his brother-in-law, Charles Schroeder, along with numerous extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Hamilton West and Freida Bell (Dodd) West.

His legacy of kindness, dedication, and love for family will continue to live on in all who knew him.

Serving as Pallbearers will be Jason McHam, Tony Palazzolo, Marshall Bowers, Wyatt McHam, Wade West, and William West. Honorary Pallbearers will be Gary West, Riley Pinson, and Charles Schroeder.