James Frazier West

Born in Nashville, TN, to Shirley Ann Frazier West and James Thomas West. At four weeks of age, Jim moved to St. Petersburg, FL, where his father had become one of the founders of Florida Presbyterian College (now Eckerd College). Jim’s infant baptism by Dr. William H. Kadel, first president of the college, was the first religious ceremony of Florida Presbyterian College.

Jim grew up in St. Petersburg. He later earned an A.A. degree in Computer Science from St. Petersburg Junior College, and he graduated from Eckerd College with a B.A. degree in Management Information Systems and a minor in Business.

Jim’s work history included computer solutions, organization, technical support, and management positions. His employment included Computer Generated Solutions, Tech Data Corp., Walter Industries, Business Technology Center, Dell Corp. – all in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. In Nashville, Computer Renaissance, Cigna-Healthspring, and in Gallatin, GAP Inc. Distribution Center. Jim also had an independent business, Great Rate Computer Solutions, and enjoyed periodic stints designing and setting up lighting and audio stage electronics for theater productions.

His hobbies and extracurricular activities included woodworking, designing and building projects in his own workshop; upgrading and enhancing his 2001 Porsche Boxter convertible; cross-country camping in early years; and playing his guitar. Jim also had a love of science fiction, especially Star Trek, and often shared his knowledge and fascination with space exploration and astronomy.

Jim was known for his kindness and his availability to help others. He was solution-oriented and creative in his work, was a patient teacher, had a strong work ethic and a great sense of humor. He won awards for science projects in school and was a member of the St. Petersburg Boychoir.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Dr. J. Thomas West.

He is survived by his mother, Dr. Ann Frazier West of Nashville, TN; a brother, Mark Thomas West, and nephew, Nathan Thomas West, St. Petersburg, FL; a sister, Julia Kathryn West, and niece, Nichole Bower O’Neil, of St. Petersburg, FL; a sister, Wendi Elizabeth West, Huntsville, AL; and great nephew Liam Thomas O’Neil and great niece Autumn O’Neil, St. Petersburg, FL; a devoted aunt Mary Elizabeth Frazier Wilson of Hendersonville, TN; and cousins, colleagues and friends – all of whom will miss his presence.

“Life itself is your teacher, and you are in a state of constant learning.” – Bruce Lee

Celebration of Life to be announced at a later date. An online guestbook is available at: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/nashville-tn/james-west-11002343.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Diabetes Action, The Heart Foundation, or a charity of your choice.