Raymond Allan West

  • Wednesday March 24, 2010
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August, 18, 1959 �" March 20, 2010

Ray passed away at his home in San Francisco from complications of a chronic illness. He was surrounded by loved ones, his partner Larry Cunniffe, his mother Marie West, and his brother Roger and family Casey, Kyle and Kayla.  He is also survived by his long time friend David Schwartz, many other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father Garvin West.

Ray was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, and grew up as a Navy brat living around the world before settling in Houston, Texas. He eventually joined the Navy himself. After serving eight years, he returned to work in Houston for NASA during the first four shuttle missions. During this time he got his education at San Jacinto Community College and University of Houston. He then moved on to a career in accounting and worked for several large firms.

He changed careers and moved into real estate. His move to San Francisco in 2005 allowed him to pursue vocational opportunities in AIDS advocacy by working with The Ryan White Planning Council, Shanti and the Public Health Foundation Enterprises.

While enjoying baseball, cycling, reading and traveling, he volunteered at many organizations. He started his philanthropic endeavors with the AIDS Memorial Quilt as a founding member of the Houston Chapter. He worked for many years with the People With AIDS Coalition of Houston including three years as its president. During this time, he also was a very active member in the Miss Camp America Houston fund raising organization. He also spent his time raising money for many other charities including participating in two separate AIDS/LifeCycle rides.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of his favorite charities; AIDS Emergency Fund, Project Inform, or the Houston-based Montrose Clinic. A memorial was held at the San Francisco Columbarium on March 22.