George West Crafton

George West Crafton died June 18, 2025. Born August 22, 1953 in Nashville, TN, he was the oldest child of Dr. and Mrs. George Boyd Crafton. West attended Montgomery Bell Academy (class of 1971) where he was recognized as a National Merit Scholar and graduated from Vanderbilt University in 1975 where he was a member of the Alpha Tao Omega fraternity. In 1982 he graduated from Medical School at the University of Louisville and moved to New Orleans, LA with his wife Ladonna and two children to complete his residency and fellowship in Cardiology. West served as Chief Resident at Tulane University Hospital during his time there. After practicing for 2 years, West and his family moved back to Nashville where he continued to practice Cardiology for 25 years. During his years at Nashville Memorial/ Skyline Hospital he served as the President of the Medical Staff, the Chairman of the Critical Care Committee, and the Director of Cardiac Rehab. He was revered by his patients for his kind bedside manner and the excellent care he provided.

Recently, West and Ladonna split their time between New Orleans and Richmond, VA to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Known for his dry sense of humor, he was a loyal friend and a loving husband and father. He was very much loved and will be deeply missed.

West is survived by his wife of 49 years, Ladonna, and their two children Chip Crafton and Cathy Crafton Lewis, and Cathy’s husband Shep Lewis. He is also survived by his siblings: Boyd Crafton (Susan) and Missy Robison (Marty), and four grandchildren: Stuart Lewis, George Crafton, CeCe Crafton, and Shepherd Lewis III, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Fond memories and condolences may be shared at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.