Harry West

Harrison “Harry” Clyde West, 69, passed away Thursday morning, March 14, 2013, at his home. Harry was born July 19, 1943 in Highland Park, Michigan to Russell Clyde and Lora Christie West, both who preceded him in death. Harry is survived by his beautiful wife of 48 years, Sandra; his three children, Thomas (Julie) West, Candy (Jack) Moore and Sandy (John) Smith; seven grandchildren, Bradley (Kimberly), Brooke (Justin), Michael (Christian), Cynthia, Missoura, Jake and Angelia; six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Loretta (Bernie) Fleischner and Mary-Jane (Elton) Pittman; his mother-in-law, three sibling-in-laws, several nieces and nephews, many friends and two dogs, Patches and Tinkerbell.Harry built his business, Hairy Glass, from the ground up. He is well known and respected throughout the racing community. Harry is known for having brought the funny car out of the dark ages. For over 40 years, he crafted some of the fastest race car bodies in the world. He was a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). He was a 32nd degree Mason, Lodge #306 and a Shriner. He also served in the Army National Guard. He was also a millwright. He had a special love of corvettes, which actually sparked the idea for his internationally known business. He was a lover of animals and an avid Harley Davidson enthusiast.Many would describe Harry as among the strongest and smartest men they know. Those closest to him would say that the strong, tough exterior was only a small part of him. On the inside, he was a teddy bear of a man who lived for his God, his family, his business and his love of the ocean. His favorite place to be was on the front porch of his beach home in St. Augustine, looking out at the ocean and counting the pelicans as they flew by.The family will receive friends starting at 10:00 am Monday, March 18, at Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home, 1426 Rowe Avenue. A service to celebrate his life will begin at 11:00 am in the chapel, with Rev. F. Ray Turner officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Vision Baptist Church, 16485 North Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32218.