Kelly Brenton West was born on March 11, 1957, to Kelly Drexel West and Elizabeth Johnson West. Kelly, the oldest of three children, was raised in a family that cultivated a strong sense of God, family, and the community. Kelly has been a member of Forest Hill’s Church of Christ for over 50 years. As a young man equipped with a strong moral compass and a foundation built on family values, Kelly excelled in the East Cleveland Public School System.

As a proud member of the East Cleveland community, Kelly graduated from Shaw High School in the class of 1976. Throughout school Kelly stayed active. Swimming at Korb Pool was something truly loved. As a lifeguard, swim coach, and swim instructor, he built lifelong bonds with the people of the community. Auto Tech, track, ping pong, and camping are activities that he started early in life and continued. Right after high school, Kelly went to Ferris College in Michigan, but that strong sense of family lead Kelly back home.

Professionally, Kelly’s first job was a paper route in his neighborhood in East Cleveland. In 1989, Kelly got his CDL and found his calling. After a short time driving 18 wheelers, he got a job as a bus driver with Cleveland City Schools. For twenty-eight years he built lifelong friendships and created amazing memories with all who had the pleasure of working with him.

In 1984, Kelly married Ivy Bullock and became daddy to Alisha. In 1985, Kelly and Ivy welcomed their son, Brian Christopher. Although their marriage was not permanent, Kelly’s love and dedication to his family never wavered. Kelly made sure his family never missed an air show or fire work display and went sledding every year. Camping trips, bike rides, swimming, and Browns games were enjoyed as a whole crew. Kelly spent his life making that happen.

In 2017, Kelly started a battle that took a lot from him. However, nothing could ever dim the light of his infectious bright smile. Nothing will ever undo the love he gives to his family. Everyone on North Lockwood, the city of East Cleveland, all his family and friends knew that when “West57” pulled up a good time was going to be had. A presence that will truly be missed.

Kelly is preceded in death by his father, Kelly Drexel, and his brother, Glen.

Left with cherished memories are his mother, Elizabeth Johnson West; sister, Debbie (Clyde) Caver; and sister-in-law, Deia West.

He is survived by his son, Brian (Lakeitha) West; daughter, Alisha (Chiquita) Walker-Anderson; children’s mother, Ivy West; grandchildren, Tre’Vaughn, Chaianne, Raylise, Shauna, and Camren; and great-granddaughter, Ray’Lynn Rose; nephews, Clyde Jr., and Kelly Lee; and niece, Carmen.

Kelly also leaves behind a host of family, friends, classmates, and coworkers who will miss him dearly.

No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety.

 Psalms 16:9