Eston Garry West Sr.

Eston Garry West, Sr., 86, of Albemarle passed away peacefully on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Trinity Place. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 on Monday, February 16, at First Baptist Church in Albemarle with Rev. Dr. Kendell Cameron officiating. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service. Born May 2, 1939, In Jenkinsburg, Georgia, Eston was lovingly raised by his parents Leenola and Joe Dugger. He often spoke fondly of his childhood in the mill village, describing it as wonderful and full of adventure. Eston was a proud graduate of the University of Georgia, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in business and where his lifelong love for Georgia football began. When he wasn’t watching Georgia Bulldogs football or Carolina Tarheels basketball, he was often casting a fishing line somewhere. Whether at his pond or with his longterm friends at the Outer Banks, Eston was always happiest with a fishing rod in his hand. While he spent his work life in a number of business endeavors, Eston ultimately landed in real estate as the owner/broker-in-charge of Four Seasons Realty in Albemarle. A devoted and faithful member of First Baptist Church, Eston served in many capacities including chairman of the deacons, member of the choir, Sunday school teacher, and on various committees. Eston and his family moved to Albemarle in 1973 thinking it would be short-term. They quickly fell in love with the area, and over the years, Eston became involved in many community organizations and activities. He served as President of the Chamber of Commerce, was very active in the Albemarle Rotary Club, and was on the Board of Stanly Community Christian Ministry. Above all, Eston was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Jackie Smith West; his children, Kecia West Smith (David) of Albemarle and Eston Garry West, Jr. (Terri) of Albemarle; his grandchildren, Drayton Smith (Lauren) of Charlotte, Sheldon Smith of Albemarle, Savannah Smith of Durham, Caroline West of Albemarle, and Eston Garry West III of Albemarle; sister-in-law, Phyllis Meservey; brother-in- law, David Dutton; niece, Kelly Poplin and nephew, Chad Meservey. Eston’s life was marked by faith, a joyful spirit, kind heart, and a deep love his family. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him. The family requests that memorials be made to Tillery Compassionate Care, https://www.tillerycompassionatecare.org or to First Baptist Church of Albemarle, https://www.fbc-albemarle.org/giving.

Eston Garry West Sr.

May 2, 1939 - February 13, 2026