Mr. Clarence Taylor "CT" West

Mr. Clarence Taylor "CT"  West, known affectionately as “CT” by his family and “West” or “Goldy” by his beloved fraternity brothers, passed away unexpectedly on June 15, 2026, at Baptist Easley Hospital in Easley, South Carolina. He was 73 years old. Though his passing came far too soon, he leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, compassion, and the kind of warmth that leaves a permanent imprint on every life he touched.

Clarence was born on August 30, 1952, in Thomson, Georgia—the foundation of a life destined to be remarkable. An exceptional student from the start, he graduated as Valedictorian from R.L. Norris High School in 1970 before going on to the historic HBCU, Paine College, in Augusta, Georgia, where he competed on the basketball court and flourished academically. During his sophomore year in 1972, he was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (Gamma Beta Chapter), a brotherhood he carried with pride for the rest of his life. In 1974, he graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, a testament to his discipline, brilliance, and unwavering determination. He joined Mu Pi Chapter (Graduate Chapter), and he would later become a lifetime member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., holding numerous positions, including Basileus and District Marshal.

His first professional opportunity brought him to South Carolina, where he built a long and distinguished career across several companies, ultimately retiring from BorgWarner in 2016 in a leadership role. In retirement, he embraced the world with open arms—traveling widely, cruising to far-off destinations, and approaching every new adventure with the same joy and curiosity he brought to all of life.

More than any title or achievement, Clarence was known for the way he made people feel. Whether sharing a joke, offering his wisdom, or simply being present, his kindness and laughter left an imprint on everyone blessed to know him. His life was lived with purpose, especially with his family and grandchildren.

Clarence is survived by his devoted wife of 22 years, Veronica Brown of Easley, SC; his sons, Jay West of Simpsonville, SC, and Rashid (Emily) West of Greenville, SC; his cherished grandchildren, Jasmyn, Adrienne, Sophia, Brielle, and Beckham; his niece and “little sister,” Twanna (Antonio) Brown of Evans, GA; and his brother, Marvin (Janice) West.

He was preceded in death by his father, Sip Taylor, Jr.; his mother, Dora West Edwards; and his sister, Marian West.

Omega Memorial Service: Friday, June 26, 2026, 6:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at Watkins, Garrett & Woods Mortuary.

Funeral Services: Saturday, June 27, 2026, 1:00 p.m., at Watkins, Garrett & Woods Mortuary, with interment private.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Omega Limited Scholarship Foundation in honor of the brotherhood Clarence held so close to his heart. Donations can be mailed to Omega Limited Scholarship Foundation, P.O. Box 863, Greenville, SC 29603, or sent via Cash App to $OLSF1911.

Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.